Turn Your Passion for Watersports into an RYA Qualification This Autumn
Turn your passion for watersports into an RYA qualification with The Official Test Centre this Autumn.
Whether you are ready to begin teaching, expand your instructor skills or progress to senior level, these four courses offer the perfect opportunity to take your watersports career further—all from the world-class waters of Portland Harbour.
Here at The Official Test Centre (OTC), we are offering four Royal Yachting Association (RYA) courses this autumn, providing a fantastic opportunity for watersports enthusiasts and instructors to develop their skills and gain recognised RYA qualifications.
Based at our superb watersports venue at Portland Harbour, we offer professional training in an outstanding environment. Whether you are looking to begin your instructor journey, expand your qualifications or progress to a senior instructor role, there is a course available for you.
By Emma Maguire
RYA Wingsurf and Wingfoil Instructor Course
26–30 October 2026
Designed for those who want to teach the fast-growing sports of wingsurfing and wingfoiling, this course will help participants develop the practical skills, knowledge and teaching techniques required to instruct others safely and confidently.
RYA Senior Instructor Course – Wing and Windsurf
2–5 November 2026
This course is aimed at experienced instructors who are ready to take the next step in their professional development.
It covers the leadership, organisation and instructional skills needed to oversee RYA wing and windsurfing activities and support other instructors.
RYA Intermediate Instructor Course
9–12 November 2026
The RYA Intermediate Instructor Course is ideal for instructors looking to broaden their teaching skills and help students progress beyond the beginner stages.
The course focuses on developing knowledge, coaching ability and confidence on the water.
RYA Start Windsurfing Instructor Course
16–20 November 2026
This course provides the training needed to introduce newcomers to windsurfing.
Participants will develop the practical and instructional skills required to deliver safe, enjoyable and engaging beginner sessions.
Do You Need to Be an Expert?
For anyone who would love to become an instructor but worries that they are not yet good enough, OTC Operations Manager Maurin Rottenwalter has some reassuring advice.
“The reality is, if you want to do an instructor course and you’re passionate about teaching others, that is what you really need,” Maurin explained.
“You might not feel like you are the best windsurfer in the world, but the best windsurfer is not always the best teacher. The best teacher can relate to their students.”
Maurin said someone taking a Start Windsurfing Instructor course may be at an intermediate level and know how to use a harness but may not be planing yet. However, they can still have the skills needed to look after a group and support those who are learning.
“They can relate much better to the students and perhaps recognise the mistakes they are making,” Maurin said. “They can also relate to how students are feeling if they are not very confident.
“Someone who has been windsurfing since they were six years old might break every record going, but they may not be able to relate to somebody who is learning. To them, it might feel like you just pick the sail up and go—but there is actually a process to it.
“You don’t have to be the best windsurfer. You need to have a passion for teaching, be able to relate to other people and be empathetic.”
Why Train at The Official Test Centre?
Maurin believes the OTC’s location, facilities and access to the water make it an excellent place to complete an instructor qualification.
“We have a really fantastic setup,” he said. “We can go out in almost every tide and wind state, and we have a very good venue.
“We have all the equipment we need, academy facilities, classrooms and plenty of changing rooms. It is the perfect venue to do everything you need to do within an easy timeframe, with straightforward access to the water and all the facilities.”
Valuable Skills and Exciting Opportunities
An RYA instructor qualification can lead to far more than teaching at a local watersports centre. It can create opportunities to work seasons, travel, earn money and gain valuable personal and professional skills.
“I think it is especially good when you are younger,” Maurin added. “You might want to go to university but not be sure what you want to do. You might want to earn some money and experience a bit of life.
“It is a great step and a great tool. It enables you to work seasons, especially during the summer. Even in winter, if you have a local school, it might still be delivering courses and activities.
“It is also a really easy way to learn valuable life skills. Becoming an instructor and teacher teaches you a lot about other people and about yourself. It is a great life lesson.”
Exclusive SurfDoctor Discount
Everyone who completes an RYA course with The Official Test Centre will receive 10% off at SurfDoctor.
The discount will remain valid for two weeks after the course has finished, giving participants the perfect opportunity to purchase or upgrade their watersports equipment, clothing and accessories.
Places may be limited, so anyone interested in developing their watersports career or gaining another RYA qualification is encouraged to secure their place as soon as possible.
View the courses and sign up online click here.
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