Chieftain Training

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Dinghy Assistant Instructor

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RYA Assistant Dinghy Instructor

A supported first step into instructing with Chieftain Training

The RYA Assistant Instructor (AI) Pathway at Chieftain Training is designed for sailors who want to take their first formal step into instructing, working with and supporting qualified instructors in a real training environment.

This pathway combines 2-days of training from our Chief Instructor, followed by a further three days of supervised work experience, alongside our full time instructors, teaching real youth beginners. This gives candidates both the qualification and the confidence to begin their instructional journey.

What is an RYA Assistant Instructor?

The RYA Assistant Instructor qualification recognised  by Royal Yachting Association, allows candidates to assist fully qualified RYA Instructors during training sessions. It is the recognised entry point to the RYA dinghy instructing ladder and a common first step for those aiming to progress to Dinghy Instructor and beyond.

Assistant Instructors do not teach independently, but instead support delivery ashore and afloat, gaining experience under close supervision. Their qualification is specific to a particular training centre (i.e SWAC)

The Chieftain Training Pathway

1. Two-Day RYA Assistant Instructor Course

The initial course focuses on the foundations of safe, effective instruction, including:

  • The role and responsibilities of an Assistant Instructor

  • Assisting with on-water sessions and shore-based briefings

  • Safety management and good practice

  • Communication and teamwork with lead instructors

  • Supporting beginners and youth sailors

  • Introduction to RYA teaching methods

This course is practical, engaging, and aimed at building confidence rather than perfection.

2. Three Days’ Supervised Work Experience

Following the initial training, candidates complete 3 further days of structured work experience at SWAC..

During these days, candidates will:

  • Assist on real RYA youth courses

  • Support instructors afloat and ashore

  • Help rig and de-rig boats

  • Observe different teaching styles and course formats

  • Build confidence working with groups

  • Develop professional behaviours expected of instructors

  • Debrief with our trainer to consolidate how the three days went.

All work experience is mentored by Chieftain Senior Instructors, ensuring candidates are supported and developed, not just used as extra hands.

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3. End of course debrief

On the final day our Chief Instructor will debrief each Assistant Instructor candidate.

Who Is This Pathway For?

This pathway is ideal for:

  • Young sailors (typically 14+) looking to start instructing

  • Club sailors considering an instructor route

  • Those aiming for a future RYA Dinghy Instructor qualification

  • Candidates who learn best through hands-on experience

  • Sailors who want to “try instructing” before committing further

Why Train with Chieftain Training?

At Chieftain Training, we see the Assistant Instructor qualification as the start of a journey, not a tick-box course.

You’ll benefit from:

  • Busy, professional training centres

  • A wide range of youth and adult courses

  • Experienced instructor trainers and senior instructors

  • A supportive, mentoring-led environment

  • Clear progression routes into Dinghy Instructor and beyond

  • Opportunities to continue working with us after qualification

Many of our current instructors started exactly here and we hope out trainee assistant instructors wil progress 

Progression Opportunities

On completion, candidates are well placed to progress to:

  • RYA Dinghy Instructor

  • Further coaching and instructing qualifications

  • Paid and voluntary instructing roles

  • Seasonal work at Chieftain Training, SWAC

Pre Requisites

  • Minimum age 14 by by the end of the course (essential)
  • Can swim (essential)
  • Recommendation from an RYA Principal- if we don’t already know you, talk to us about this (essential)
  • RYA First Aid (desirable)
  • At least one of; (essential)
    • RYA Sailing with Spinnkaers
    • RYA Seamanship
    • RYA Start Racing
    • RYA Performance Sailing
    • RYA Day Sailing

Ready to Get Started?

If you’re enthusiastic, reliable, and keen to develop your skills while helping others get on the water, the RYA Assistant Instructor Pathway is the perfect place to begin.