Training/Self Development

We run regular Tuesday morning self development sessions during the sailing season. They are a chance to improve your skills and socialise with fellow volunteers. It’s also the primary route for inducting new volunteers.

We train in winds up to 21 Kts and this is a great way of getting confident in stronger winds so that in the unlikely event you are caught by a gust or squall you know how the Hawks behave and will be confident to handle the situation skillfully.

It’s important to note we don’t have the time or resources to teach people how to sail but we can help people transfer their existing skills to our fleet of four Hawk 20’s and our safety boat Barbican.

If you’d like to practice specific skills please let the DO know before the start of the session so they can plan accordingly. Obviously some things are wind dependent e.g. spinnaker practice.

If you are non-disabled and know how to sail you can volunteer as a No.2 and then work your way up through the ranks. If you are a disabled member and have joined as crew then you too can then become a No.2 or skipper if you have the skills. We have had several disabled members “crew” who have become No.2’s

In order to ensure everyone has practiced the relevant skills we have two check sheets for No.2’s and Skippers.

Please download the check sheet, print it off and bring it with you to each training session. Whilst having completed all the skills is necessary it’s up to the DO’s to agree a final sign off as No.2 or Skipper.

Paul Smale is the current training coordinator so please feel free to email him with any questions: training@poolesailability.org.uk

Please click on the buttons below to download the relevant documents

Hawk no2 responsibilites checklist 2026 – click here

Duty Officer Assessment Criteria 2026 – click here

Hawk Skipper Assessment Criteria 2026 – click here

Original Hawk Operating manual – click here