In each Training in Focus edition, we will provide some bite-sized, practical, easy to implement ‘Top-Tips’ from experienced instructors and coaches from around the country, that you can incorporate into your session planning and delivery throughout the season.  

In this edition, is Nickie Jones’s Top-Tips for Keel Boat instructors!

Nickie Jones has been the Chief Instructor of the Australian Sailing Keelboat Programme since 2017. Her role is to build the Keel Boat training program, and support instructor training around Australia. In addition to Nickie’s professional involvement with the sport, she has been racing competitively since she was 11 years old. You name it, she’s sailed it! Mirrors, 125, Cherubs, Fireballs, 420, 470, J24, J22, Farr 36, S80, Foundation 36 yachts, to name a few. She’s competed extensively at State, National, and International level. 

Preparation is key 

When delivering Australian Sailing accredited courses, much of the preparation has been done for you. Run sheets, activity cards and instructor notes comprise much of what is needed to plan fun, constructive on-water sessions. Familiarise yourself with these, then make your own plan, considering the weather, local environment, and dynamics of the group. Being prepared instills confidence in you as an instructor. Confidence is contagious! 

Mental Rehearsal 

Once you have planned your session rehearse it mentally until you know it. Jot a list on the whiteboard of items to cover. Time yourself. Theory sessions should be concise and ‘at level’. (Course materials give solid guidance on the level to be covered) 

Get To Know your Participants 

Three questions to ask at the commencement of each course: 

• What motivated you to come to a sailing class? 

• What experience, if any, in any kind of vessel do you have? 

• After this course, where to next? 

By asking these questions you will learn a lot about the water confidence levels, knowledge, personality traits/ character and goals of each participant. Tailor your approach to their needs. 

Don’t skip the Theory 

Most adults need a foundation of understanding before they try to piece it all together on the water in a practical session. The initial investment of time using magnetic boats and a whiteboard will always pay off on the water. 

Rotate Roles and Follow a Systematic Approach 

When teaching a new skill, allow each participant the opportunity to carry out each role on board including trimming the jib, main and helming the boat. Model good communication. Use EDICP (Explain, Demonstrate, Imitate, Correct, Practice) to ensure structured sessions and give feedback throughout. Consolidate one skill before commencing another. Course run sheets offer a logical sequence and an idea of timing. Adjust timing according to the weather and individual needs of your group. 

Never underestimate the power of a Debrief

Be the first person to give positive feedback. Everyone tends to underestimate how well they did. Early sailing experiences can be quite over-whelming. 

What made sense? What didn’t? Encourage participants to read specifically relevant pages in the Introductory Keel Boat textbook. 

Fun 

If you’re not having fun, you’re not doing it right!