Cadet Sail Training
Cadet training is open to GSC members in school year 4 and above, up to age 16.
Most cadet training is provided on Thursday and Friday evenings from May to July, with a beginners course held over two weekends in early May. There is also some training on Saturday afternoons for those who cannot access weekday evenings.
RYA level 2-4 is taught on Thursdays, and race training (Start racing and intermediate racing) is on Fridays. The Saturday course is for all levels from level 2-Start Racing.
Cadets must demonstrate competence at RYA stage 2 to participate in Thursday or Saturday training, or RYA stage 3 to participate in Friday Race training. There is an assessment day at the end of April for cadets whose sailing level is uncertain.
Cadets who are not yet at RYA stage 2 can attend the 2 weekend beginner course provided for the club by IYWAC in Cowes, and then progress to Thursday evenings if appropriate.
The Intermediate racing course is aimed at those cadets who have completed Start Racing and wish to improve their racing skills. This course is specifically designed to support and encourage cadets who are already participating in club racing.
Limited Pico / Feva hire is available, but cadets are encouraged to obtain their own boats if possible, preferably a Pico or similar. Priority for hire will be given to cadets who have not previously hired Picos for cadet training and do not own a boat.
Due to the huge popularity of cadet training, applications must be received in writing by the closing date, usually the third week of March.
All Cadets and their parents are asked to attend the Registration night in early April, when medical and consent forms are completed, and the structure of sessions explained. On this evening parents are also asked to volunteer to help with kitchen bar or beach duties. Applications will not be accepted on registration night
See the Training Calendar for details of dates. Applications should be made on the Training application form