Half term is coming, and you know how it goes. Day one is lovely. By day three, someone's been on a screen since breakfast and the "I'm bored" count is in double figures.

So here's a better plan: two days on the water, and they come home with a RYA qualification. Whether your child has never set foot in a dinghy or spent the summer learning to sail with us, there's a course for them this October.

Which stage is right for my child?

Stage 1: first time sailors
Mon 26 & Tue 27 October
The perfect starting point. Children learn the key parts of the boat, how to launch and recover it, and how to steer and sail across the wind. No experience needed, just water confidence and a sense of adventure.

Stage 2: ready to level up
Wed 28 & Thu 29 October
For sailors who've completed Stage 1 (or have similar experience). They'll sail on all points of sail, master tacking and gybing, sharpen their rope work, and learn how to avoid collisions on the water.

Stage 3: building independence
Wed 28 & Thu 29 October
For confident Stage 2 sailors. This course covers rigging, sailing theory and capsize recovery in moderate conditions, working towards sailing a triangle course on their own.

Two qualifications in one week

Here's the clever bit: a complete beginner can do Stage 1 on Monday and Tuesday, then carry straight on to Stage 2 on Wednesday and Thursday. That's four days on the water and two RYA certificates by the end of half term, while the skills are still fresh.

"Sailing? In October?"

Honestly, autumn is a brilliant time to learn. The summer crowds have gone, the lake is calmer, and the breezes are just right for building skills. Wrap them up in layers and waterproofs, and they'll be too busy grinning to notice any chill.

Why parents love it

• Drop-off days. Drop them in the morning, collect in the afternoon, and get on with your day.
• Or stay and watch from The Boat Shack café and terrace with a coffee, overlooking the water.
• Small groups with a 1:6 instructor ratio and qualified, DBS-checked instructors.
• All equipment provided. Just bring warm clothes, a spare set, old trainers, waterproofs and a packed lunch.
• Supportive for every child. We regularly welcome young sailors with additional needs. As one mum told us after her son's course, everyone was "understanding and accepting of him."

Prices and discounts

Every stage is from £190 for two days. New for 2026: save 5% when you book two or more children.