Q: Can you tell me the most rewarding thing about doing your 16 week Watersport's Instructor course?
"I came to Plas Menai to do the instructor course not sure what to expect. The instruction at Plas Menai is the best i have ever had and the staff support you every way they can to help you achieve your instructor awards, but you learn so much more than just how to sail, windsurf and kayak through the experience and Plas Menai becomes a home from home."
"I first read about Plas Menai on the internet and then spent a weekend at the centre on a 'Taster' weekend. This allowed me to gain a valuable insight into the centre and what the course involved. After gaining experience with a different outdoor company, I decided to further my professional development and enrolled on the course. Plas Menai offered me a range of qualifications and experiences which have greatly enhanced my knowledge and expertise. The course was run by highly qualified staff who were keen to share their professional skills and knowledge. The accommodation and food was excellent and all in all this was a very welcoming experience, which I would fully recommend! I am now looking forward to applying my new skills when I commence the Work Experience Programme in March 2013"
Q: What are the most common routes of employment people take after doing this course?
I would say that 90% of students apply and are successful in securing a place on our Work Experience Programme. This is a six month programme and is designed for Level 1 Instructors who want to gain further experience in a work environment. We consider this period of time to be the most valuable in students learning and development.
The programme provides an opportunity to refine instructional skills in a top class coaching environment with expert feedback and analysis.
Q: Do you need to have any qualifications or experience before you go on the 16 week course?
All we ask is that you have done a minimum of one week's dinghy sailing, windsurfing and kayaking. If you do not have this experience our Foundation Courses will soon get you up to speed.
Q: You are based in a beautiful location, what is the best thing about being based where you are?
We are based on the banks of the Menai Strait so getting on and off the water is quick and easy. The mountains rivers and lakes of the Snowdonia National Park are also all within a ten minute drive of the centre, providing an unrivalled diversity of training locations and conditions.
Q: What are the most important things to bring with you on your courses?
Enthusiasm, passion and a willingness to learn and pass your passion onto others.
Q: Have you got any big plans for 2015?
We are currently looking at some "bolt ons" to the the 16 Week Course such as Orienteering Training Course, Beach Lifeguard Training Course and Stand Up Paddleboard Instructor
