RYA Start Windsurf Instructor Course at the OTC: Turn Your Passion into Opportunity!

Team OTC
1 day ago
2 min read

If you love windsurfing and have ever thought about sharing that passion with others, the RYA Start Windsurf Instructor Course at the Official Test Centre could be your next step.

I spoke to The Official Test Centre, Operations Manager Maurin Rottenwalter to find out what the course involves, who it’s for, and where it can take you.

By Emma Maguire.

What is the RYA Start Windsurf Instructor Course?

The course is designed for anyone who already enjoys windsurfing and wants to take things further by becoming an instructor. You don’t need to be an expert—just confident enough to be sailing comfortably, using a harness, and starting to plane.

As Maurin explains, the focus isn’t just on your own skills:

“It’s really for people who want to bring that buzz of windsurfing and that enjoyment to other people.”

Over five days, you’ll learn how to teach complete beginners—from their very first steps on the water through to sailing confidently across and upwind. The course covers lesson structure, time management, safety, and how to break down skills in a clear and supportive way.

Where can it take you?

Once qualified, a range of opportunities opens up. You could work at windsurfing or sailing centres across the UK, or take your skills abroad to popular watersports destinations like Greece or Spain.

For some, it’s the perfect gap year job or a way to earn while studying. For others, it becomes a long-term career in the watersports industry.

Who can join?

The course is open to anyone aged 16 and over. And there’s no upper age limit—Maurin has seen participants well into their 70s take part.

Whether you’re looking for a career change, a new challenge, or simply a way to deepen your connection to the sport, the course is designed to be accessible and inclusive.

Course details

Dates: 5th – 9th May
Duration: 5 days
Cost: £395

All you really need to bring is enthusiasm, a willingness to learn, and a positive attitude.

Why train at the OTC?

The Official Test Centre is widely regarded as one of the best places in the UK to learn and train.

With access to classroom facilities at the nearby sailing academy and safe, flat-water conditions on the water, it offers an ideal learning environment. Easy access, minimal hazards, and a variety of teaching locations make it especially suited to instructor training.

More than just a course

Beyond the technical skills, the course has a strong social side. Everyone attending shares a common goal—a love of windsurfing—which creates a supportive and enjoyable atmosphere.

With around 80% of the course spent on the water, it’s a hands-on, active experience where you’ll learn by doing, connect with like-minded people, and build confidence both as a sailor and a teacher.

Why now is the perfect time

Taking the course in spring puts you in a great position for the busy summer season. Many centres are actively recruiting for June through September, and completing your qualification now could lead directly into work.

As Maurin puts it, this is the ideal moment to get started—before the season kicks off.