Watersports Instructor Diploma

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LOCATION & START DATE
Falmouth Marine School - 8 September 2025
LEVEL
Level 2 Levels Explained
DURATION
1 Year
LEARNING AREA
Sports & Fitness Find out more
ATTENDANCE
Full-time

Course information

Watersports students This is a unique course which prepares students for a career in watersports and the wider outdoor industry. This course is perfect for anyone that has an interest in sports, especially the outdoors.

If you are passionate about outdoor adventure and love being outside, this course can help you turn your passion into your career. Not only will you achieve your Level 2 diploma, you will also develop your personal and leadership skills in a range of watersports including paddleboarding, kayaking, windsurfing and sailing.

You will also have the opportunity to gain additional instructor qualifications which will make you extremely employable within the industry.

Stithians Lake is your classroom! 75% of your timetable will be getting afloat and developing skills in a wide range of watersports. Once your personal levels are upto scratch, you will start developing leadership and coaching skills. You will gain a range of RYA qualifications in sailing, windsurfing, powerboating and first aid. Your classroom sessions will focus on study such as business, sports events and health and safety.

You will have the opportunity to take part in several trips which could include surfing, coasteering, and even a trip abroad to a watersports centre!

Entry requirements for external applicants and school leavers
• Three or more GCSEs at Grade 3 or above, or successful completion of a relevant Level 1 qualification.

Entry requirements for existing learners with the Cornwall College Group
• Successful completion of previous course and, where relevant, progress in maths and/or English.

A minimum of three GCSEs at grade D (3) (ideally including maths and/or English)

This course is based at Stithians Lake which is fantastic as it means that from day one you are immersed within the industry. In addition to this, work placements are available at a range of watersports and outdoor centres, as well as local surf shops etc.

You will be assessed through written and practical tasks. There are no exams.

The course naturally leads to the Level 3 diploma where you will be able to progress your skills further and gain even more national governing body qualifications. By the end of 2 years you could have the following qualifications:

L2 and L3 Diploma in outdoor sport
RYA powerboat level 2
RYA dinghy instructor
RYA windsurf instructor
2 Day outdoor First aid
Paddle boarding and Kayaking Instructor

Career pathways:
Watersports / outdoor instructor
Senior instructor
Centre manager

Falmouth Marine School

Falmouth Marine School

With a modern campus in the centre of Falmouth and boat workshops on the waterfront, studying at Falmouth Marine School is joyous. Few colleges in the country can boast the exceptional experience you will have, whether it’s studying to become the next marine scientist, marine engineer, boatbuilder, or watersports industry expert. There is a special, friendly and dynamic atmosphere on campus, which is backed up by a supportive and highly knowledgeable team. It’s no surprise that our alumni always recommend Falmouth Marine School to have your #careercollege experience.


Find out more about our Falmouth campus


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Course type 16-19 Adult
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16-18 Tuition fees: £0
If you’re aged 16-18 when you begin your course, you will usually be eligible for free tuition. Detailed information can be found in our Financial Support section.
Financial support for School Leavers
Tuition Fees: £709.00
If you are aged 19+, the cost of the course will depend on your circumstances. Detailed information can be found in our Financial Support Section.
Financial support for ages 19+
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Course Code 10092-FMS-25

Courses listed on this website are indicative of the subject, nature and level of study. The College reserves the right to alter specific qualifications titles, awarding bodies and levels of qualification, which can change in year. Any cost may also vary, based on personal funding eligibility. The Cornwall College Group reserves the right to withdraw any course listed at any time.

Watersports Instructor Diploma Level 2 Falmouth Marine School Watersports, Sports, Adventure, Instructor
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