Plas Menai has been inspiring people for over 35 years and is recognised as a centre of excellence in the development of outdoor professionals that go on to work all over the world.
Our unrivalled reputation, superb facilities, extensive resources and stunning location make Plas Menai the number one choice for those looking to break into the outdoor industry. Our programmes are designed to help you get the most out of your time with us and ensure you are equipped with the right skills and qualifications to gain work within the industry.
Our Centre is perfectly situated for the ultimate outdoor training coupled with an unrivalled diversity of training locations and conditions. We are situated on the banks of the Menai Strait, near Bangor on the North Wales coast. The Centre is only a short drive from the Snowdonia National Park and overlooks the Isle of Anglesey.
Course Description
a typical day on this gap project
During your time at the centre you will develop your own personal outdoor skills, in readiness for undertaking your instructor qualifications, as well as developing your teaching and group management skills which are necessary in becoming an effective instructor. You will be centre based and be both out on the water and in the classroom.
Would you be a good fit?
the requirements for this course
This training programme does not require candidates to hold any pre-qualifications, ideal for a school or college leaver or if you fancy a complete career change.
What can we offer you?
why choose us for your gap year
The programme includes ALL of the industry sought after qualifications along with all necessary personal protective clothing, equipment and tuition.
Cruising - RYA Competent Crew, RYA Day Skipper Theory, RYA Day Skipper
Powerboating - RYA Powerboat Level 2, RYA Intermediate Powerboat, RYA Powerboat Instructor (for those with prior logged powerboating experience)
Dinghy Sailing - RYA Basic Skills; RYA Sailing with Spinnakers; RYA Dinghy Instructor Pre-Entry; RYA Dinghy Instructor
Windsurfing -RYA Intermediate Windsurfing (Non-Planing); RYA Intermediate Windsurfing (Planing); Beach Start; RYA Start Windsurfing Instructor
Kayaking - BCU Levels 1-2 Canoe; BCU Levels 1-3 Kayak; BCU Foundation Safety &Rescue; BCU-UKCC Coaching Certificate Level 1
Miscellaneous - RYA First Aid, VHF Radio Licence; RYA Diesel Engine Maintenance; MIAS Mountain Bike Leader
All exam fees and relevant logbooks are included in the training programme package.
Accommodation to all candidates is allocated, in a single room within our on site shared houses with easy access to all the centres facilities, kit storage and car parking.
Full board is included in your course fee with nutritious and healthy meals served.
Free Internet access and resource material.
Kit and equipment; We have one of the largest ranges of top quality outdoor equipment available for use anywhere in the UK, and availability to a range of high quality kit (Please note kit does not include shoes)
There is also further career development opportunities with Plas Menai's Instructor Development Programme after successfully completing the Instructor Training programme, where you can gain paid work experience as an outdoor instructor on a placement between 6 and 11 months.
