The summer season may be drawing to a close, but training doesn’t have to. Many sailors who developed new skills over the summer will be wondering what comes next. Maintaining that momentum is one of the best ways to retain members, continue developing their skills and keep instructors engaged.
Use the school calendar and the SBSS syllabus as a blueprint for your autumn programme. A series of half-day sessions delivered over six to eight weeks offers an accessible format that provides structure, establishes a routine and supports continued progression.
Programmes should be based on the appropriate syllabus level, but they don’t have to be called Basic Skills or Improving Skills. Instead, their names can reflect the experience you want to offer, such as Regatta Ready, Learning the Ropes, Race Clinics or Cara na Mara. Grouping sailors with peers of a similar skill level creates a positive learning environment, builds confidence and gives everyone the best opportunity to succeed.
A well-planned autumn programme can keep members active and engaged on the water right through to Halloween. From there, move seamlessly into a Halloween Regatta or Spooky Sailing Camp before launching a winter programme for those keen to continue sailing in colder, more challenging conditions.