Fowey Maritime Centre RYA Cruising Instructor Qualification Course Syllabus

Cruising Instructor Qualification Course Syllabus

Cruising Instructors (CI) are able to teach up to the level of the Day Skipper practical course through an RYA recognised training centre. The course can be taken in either sail or motor cruisers, and your certificate will be endorsed accordingly.

Eligibility

Prior to the course candidates must fulfil the following criteria:

• Maximum age 64
• Yachtmaster® Offshore Certificate of Competence
• First Aid Certificate
• Commercial Endorsement
• Basic Sea Survival Certificates
• Medical fitness examination (ML5, ENG1 or medical issued by a National Maritime Authority)

Validity

The qualification is valid for five years. After five years the CI must either be re-assessed or, preferably, progress to the Yachtmaster® Instructor Course.

Assessment

The assessment will be conducted by the Principal or chief instructor of an RYA recognised training centre.

No more than two candidates may be examined in one day. Candidates will be assessed on their general suitability for instruction as sell as specific skills.

Syllabus

Instructional Technique

The CI Can:

• Set up tasks and teaching sessions appropriate to individual students
• Brief clearly to all the crew or individuals
• Ensure tasks are undertaken correctly and safely
• Debrief and provide plan for improvement
• Explain clearly in any part of the Competent Crew or Helmsman and Day Skipper Shorebased Courses
• Give convincing practical demonstrations of any part of the Competent Crew or Helmsman course and Day Skipper Practical course, including the following:
  • Knots
  • sail handling and trim
  • man overboard
  • mooring
  • pilotage by day and night
  • IRPCS
  • basic meterology
  • navidation to Day Skipper Practical standard
  • skippering ability including comprehensive knowledge of the yacht and its equipment

Knowledge

RYA Competent Crew or Helmsman and Day Skipper Shorebased and Practical courses.

Understands:

• RYA Scheme
• Levels of competence required for award certificates
• Duty of care
• Environmental protection issues
• Policies and procedures specific to the centre

Safety

• Has a personal standard and style of skippering which engenders confidence in beginners.
• Can give a comprehensive safety briefing using the centre's instructions.

Understands:

• Centre's safety policy
• Accident reporting procedure
• Care of yacht

Personal Skills

• Has the ability to welcome strangers on board and run a relaxed, happy ship.

Understands:

• How to gain feedback and deal with difficult customers and complaints
• The need for high personal standards

Instructors teaching Coastal Skipper courses must have a current instructor or examiner endorsement.