New Yacht Training Scheme for Australia

by Yachting Australia on 1 Jan 2008 Yachting Australia and RYA are on the verge of finalising a formal partnership for a new Yacht Training Scheme for Australia.

Yachting Australia's General Manager Alastair Snell said the new scheme would provide international recognition of qualifications as well as a national harmonization of course content and delivery.

'Once finalised, the new Yacht Training Scheme will be rolled out over three years from January. The training will be aligned to the RYA's international standard and will be delivered by Yachting Australia'.

'The new program will offer international recognition of qualifications, a wider range of supporting resources and courses, a quality management run to international standards and localised administration,' said Mr Snell.
Existing Yacht Cruising Scheme qualifications issued separately by the RYA and Yachting Australia will remain valid. The current Yachting Australia Yacht Cruising Scheme will continue to be offered and fully supported until 31 December 2010.

Mr Snell said that the three-year implementation schedule should give training centres time to upgrade their qualifications and fleet, if necessary, and to meet certain administrative requirements such as insurance and a customer feedback system.

'Over the same time period, a new National Keelboat Scheme will be developed with significant industry consultation. This will replace the beginner levels of Yachting Australia's existing program and will be in place by January 2011'.


'The new Yacht Training Scheme and the National Keelboat Scheme will expand the provision of courses and provide a pathway for small boat sailors to progress seamlessly to offshore yachting, especially if they wish to pursue international sailing and employment opportunities'.

He said both programs would be run nationally with a strong emphasis on national standards for training centres and instructor training.

Penny Haire, RYA's Training and Development Manager (Australia & Asia Pacific) said the new program will offer the highest level of professionalism in yacht training ever seen in Australia.

'For the first time ever, yachting qualifications will be consistently delivered across all States of Australia and recognized internationally' said Ms Haire.

'Yachting Australia is working in partnership with the RYA because RYA qualifications are recognized and respected around the world and with more than 130 years experience, we are able to provide a world-class training platform that will be locally administered and operated by Yachting Australia.'