Windsurf Instructor Course

During the instructor course, you will learn the RYA training method for teaching beginners and improvers to windsurf.

You will develop your instructional and coaching skills both on and off the water, as well as the theory that underlies the sport.

We ensure you have ample time to practice teaching and coaching on the course before the final assessment on the last day.

Course content

• The role of the instructor
• Instruction and coaching principles
• The RYA training scheme
• How to teach
  • Starting, turning around, and sailing
  • Steering and stance
  • Sailing upwind and tacking
  • Sailing downwind and gybing
  • Self-rescue
• Teaching juniors
• Teaching special needs
• Course planning
• Risk assessment and legal issues

Fantastic location

The course is based at Flying Fish Sailing at Middle Harbour Yacht Club, home of the Australian Sailing Team.

It is a superb location for windsurfing, offering reliable winds and a multitude of beautiful beaches just a short sail away.

Experienced trainers

Your instructor course will be run by a highly experienced and qualified RYA Windsurf Trainer Assessor. You will be assessed on the final day by an independent course moderator.

• You hold a recognised First Aid certificate and RYA Powerboat Level 2 qualification.
• You are confident windsurfing in planing conditions. You can also handle a long board and demonstrate your skills in light winds.
• If you have less experience or need the First Aid or Powerboat course, check out our Windsurf Instructor Fast-track course.

• Equipment, tuition, publications, and certification.
• RYA Start Windsurfing Instructor

• You are ready to start work as a Windsurfing Instructor at any RYA or Australian Sailing recognized centre 

• Booking information
  • To secure your place in the course, please pay a 20% holding deposit via the links provided above. This deposit will reserve your position until sixty days before the course start date, at which point the remaining course fees will be required.
  • Please be aware that the deposit is non-refundable; however, it can be transferred to any other course or event offered by Flying Fish.
  • We recommend booking early to avoid disappointment, as spaces are limited.
  • View our Terms and Conditions.
• What are the essential skills and knowledge required to join this course?
  • You should be a competent windsurfer, confident in sailing in a range of conditions, including tacking, gybing, sailing upwind and downwind, and performing self-rescue.
  • Ideally, you will hold the RYA Intermediate Non-Planing certificate or have equivalent experience.
  • You should have some basic theory knowledge, such as wind awareness, board setup, and simple weather considerations.
• What equipment will I train on?
  • You’ll use modern RYA-approved windsurfing boards and rigs suited for teaching beginners and improvers.
  • The course covers using a range of beginner-friendly kit and provides tips on adapting for different wind and water conditions.
• How fit do I need to be?
  • You’ll need a reasonable level of fitness and stamina to spend time on the water and demonstrate skills repeatedly.
  • A positive attitude and willingness to learn and teach are just as important as physical ability.
  • If you’re unsure whether this course is suitable for you, please contact us to discuss your experience and fitness level.
• What happens if the weather is bad?
  • We run the course in a range of wind and weather conditions, as it’s important to learn how to adapt your teaching approach.
  • In the unlikely event of extreme weather where it’s unsafe to be on the water, theory sessions and shore-based teaching techniques will be covered instead.
• What should I bring with me?
  • Wetsuit
  • Rash vest, swimwear, and quick-dry clothing
  • Old trainers or wetsuit boots for grip and protection on the board
  • Hat, sunglasses with a strap, and high-factor sunscreen
  • A towel and a warm change of clothes for after sessions
  • Water bottle and lunch/snacks for the day
  • A sense of enthusiasm, teamwork, and a willingness to learn new teaching skills!
• What job opportunities are there after becoming an RYA qualified Windsurf Instructor?
  • Once qualified, you can work at watersports centres across the Mediterranean, the UK, and Australia, teaching windsurfing to beginners and improvers.
  • Many instructors combine their qualifications with travel, working seasonal jobs at resorts, holiday companies, and beach clubs.
  • It also makes sense to add an RYA Dinghy Sailing Instructor qualification, as this broadens your employability and allows you to teach a wider range of activities at most centres.