Our Waterfront Training Academy is a 2-year program that provides the opportunity for older children to become leaders in our programs, working alongside Lead and Junior Instructors, in a structured, participant-focused program.

This program is designed for children ages 14-16 who have previously participated in our programs. The ideal candidate is an enthusiastic and respectful role model who has a passion for and some experience in activities on the water, and an affinity for working with younger children. This is a great opportunity to gain skills and experience for those interested in working in a waterfront role in the future! Thousands of sailing and community boating centers are looking to hire young instructors with sailing and/or waterfront experience. This program will give participants a head start in training and certification to fill those roles!

Program Year 1

Year 1 participants will spend their days receiving waterfront and group management training through engaging programs on the water and break out sessions with a dedicated WTA instructor, providing the opportunity for supported learning and feedback! Activities may include kayaking, sailing, paddleboarding, canoeing, beach exploration, and more, as participants get the opportunity to assist groups of younger children in their daily camp programs! Participants will focus on higher level paddling skills and have active discussions and observation periods aimed at learning what it means to be a safe and effective waterfront instructor. Spending half their days with peers and half with groups of younger campers, WTA Year 1 is the best way to practice leadership and independence while strengthening your own skills and enjoying time out on the water! There is no cost to participate in the program.

Program Year 2

Year 2 WTA Cadets will spend their days fully immersed in assisting groups of younger children in camp groups. Under the direct supervision of Lead Waterfront and Sailing Instructors, Cadets have the opportunity to put into practice the leadership, group management, and advanced skills they've developed as campers and Year 1 participants while creating a positive and safe environment for younger campers. Cadets receive pre-summer training and will meet prior to the summer sessions to prepare for their. This programs functions as on-the-job training for future instructors for a variety of waterfront roles! There is no cost to participate in the program.

Waterfront Training Sessions

• Session 1: June 29 - June 3, July 6 - July 10
• Session 2: July 13 - July 17, July 20 - July 24

• Session 3: July 27 - July 31, Aug. 3 - Aug. 7
• Session 4: Aug. 10 - Aug. 14, Aug. 17 - 21   

Program requires a minimum 2-consectutive week sessions. 

Registration Information

Contact weldon@savebuzzardsbay.org to register and see if this program is right for you! This program is currently open to past participants only.

This program, free for participants, prioritizes Wareham and low-income families, and is funded by a Wareham Community Development Block Grant. Participants will need to fill out an application and be selected to participate. Participation in the program does not guarantee future employment with the organization. Participation in this program does not guarantee future employment. Participants may request which group they would prefer to work with but will ultimately be placed by administration based on group needs each week.