Youth Sailing Scheme
YSS Level 1
An introduction to the boat and the basics of sailing.
Level 1 is all about building confidence and becoming comfortable on the water. No previous experience is needed.
Sailors will learn:
The different parts of a dinghy and what they do
Basic wind awareness — where the wind is coming from and why it matters
How to steer using the tiller extension
How to sail across the wind (on a reach)
How to tack (turn the bow through the wind)
Basic safety rules and what to do if the boat tips over
There’s a strong focus on safety, communication and teamwork. Capsize recovery is introduced in a calm, controlled way so sailors understand what to do and feel reassured rather than worried.
By the end of Level 1:
Sailors should be able to sail across the wind, tack and steer a short course under close supervision.
This is a big confidence-building stage — lots of first achievements and proud moments.
YSS Level 2
Becoming a confident, all-round beginner sailor.
Level 2 builds on the foundations from Level 1 and introduces sailing in all directions.
Sailors will develop:
Sailing upwind and downwind
Confident tacking and gybing
Better steering and speed control
Understanding of the “no-go zone”
Ropework (including basic knots)
Improved launching and recovery skills
There’s more emphasis on awareness — looking around, judging space, and beginning to make small decisions independently.
By the end of Level 2:
Sailors should be able to sail a triangular course in light to moderate conditions and understand how to control their speed and direction safely.
At this stage, many sailors start to feel genuinely independent on the water.
YSS Level 3
Improving technique and sailing with greater independence.
Level 3 focuses on refining skills and improving efficiency. Sailors begin to understand why certain techniques work — not just how to do them.
They will work on:
Improving sail trim for different points of sail
Better boat balance and body positioning
Sailing efficiently upwind
Controlled gybes
Launching and recovering in stronger winds
Decision-making in changing conditions
Sailors start to take more responsibility for their own boat preparation and safety checks.
By the end of Level 3:
Sailors should feel confident sailing in moderate conditions, handling their boat competently and making sensible decisions with instructor support nearby rather than constant direction.
This level often marks the shift from “learning to sail” to “being a sailor.”
YSS Level 4
Confident, capable and ready for the next challenge.
Level 4 builds strong, independent sailors who are ready to move into more specialised pathways such as racing, seamanship or advanced boat handling.
Sailors will develop:
Sailing efficiently on all points of sail in a range of conditions
Advanced boat handling and smoother manoeuvres
Sailing short courses with accuracy
Problem-solving on the water
Greater situational awareness
Confidence in stronger winds
There’s a strong focus on independence, judgement and consistent performance.
By the end of Level 4:
Sailors should be confident, capable and ready to progress into advanced RYA modules or club racing.
It’s a fantastic achievement and something many young sailors are very proud of.