FAQ's

• What extras do my course fees cover?

We provide secure accommodation on site as well as all meals and equipment. The meals are all provided in our large canteen, and include a full cooked breakfast, packed lunch and three-course dinner. There are vegetarian options available, so please inform us of any special dietary needs prior to arrival. Non-residential options are available contact us for details.

• Is all the equipment for the course provided?

Yes, with the exception of footwear to wear on the water. We recommend either wetsuit boots/shoes if you have them, or some old trainers that you don't mind them getting wet. We do not allow bare feet or sandals on the water. They will need towels and swimming costumes, as well as some big warm jumpers to put on over their wetsuit if they get a bit cold, which might get a little damp so beware! If they have any kit already, i.e.: wetsuits then they are welcome to bring them along, just make sure that you name them to avoid confusion!

• What equipment do you have available?

Depending on their course, age and ability they could be using boats ranging from Optimists right through to Laser 4000's, Topper Spices and Dart 16's. On the windsurfing side we have boards and kit ranging from the big kid and rookie boards through to short boards and high performance equipment for the more able.

• If none of these dates are convenient are others available?

Our programme is fairly fixed due to prior arrangements and school groups but if you have a date in mind we can see what we can do to make things happen. Obviously if it is a very busy week then adjustments might not be possible, so we don't make any promises! Any changes to the programme or new courses are at the discretion of the Chief Instructor, and must be agreed prior to arrival at the Academy. In particular we tend to run adult weekend courses and the more high performance courses on a request basis - so if you don't see the dates you want give us a call and provided we have at least 15 days notice we will look into the possibility of running a course around your time schedule. If you have a few friends you want to bring with you then the more the merrier!

• How long is a typical day/session?

The day will start at around 8.45 to 9am when your child will help get the equipment ready, and change into their wetsuit and safety gear. The groups generally get on the water at around 9.30am depending on the weather and tidal conditions. Lunch is normally taken at around 12.30, either on location or back on site. The sessions end at around 4pm, so that the children have time to shower and change before dinner. After dinner the evening entertainments get under way!

• What age are the courses aimed at?

That all depends on the course in question. Included in this pack should be some course descriptions which detail target ages, but if you are unsure then please get in touch and we will advise you, as their previous experience can sometimes dictate which course would be best for them or you.

• How do I get to UKSA?

The easiest way to come over is via the Red Jet from Southampton Town Quay, as this only takes about 25 minutes and brings you into West Cowes. Alternatively if you would like to bring the car then you can come over on the Red Funnel from Southampton and comes into East Cowes. See How to Find Us for more information.