Build a Northbridge Junior. Launch it. Sail it.

Due to a very positive response registrations are closed for this year.

Don't be disapointed because expressions of interest can be made for next year at the following link!
RSVP for Youth Build a Boat Program 2027

PROGRAM OVERVIEW

A Hands-On Winter Project With Real Outcome

This winter, BYRA invites young people to take part in a unique hands-on programme — building a real Northbridge Junior sailing dinghy from the ground up, then learning to sail it. 

• This is not a model.
• It’s not a theory class.
• It’s a real boat. Built by real hands. Launched on real water.

What Is the Northbridge Junior?

The Northbridge Junior is a purpose-designed junior sailing dinghy created to introduce young sailors to the sport in a safe, simple, and engaging way. It is:

• Stable and practical for junior training
• Simple to rig and maintain
• Designed specifically for learning
• Ideal as a stepping stone into club sailing and racing.
  
  
  
  

What Participants Will Learn

🔧Practical Skills

• Safe use of hand and selected power tools
• Measuring, marking, and reading simple plans
• Timber assembly and structural construction
• Fibreglass taping and finishing systems
• Painting and final fit-out
• Basic rigging and sailing preparation

and more....

👥Personal Development

• Teamwork and communication
• Responsibility and project ownership
• Confidence through skill mastery
• Problem-solving and resilience
• Pride in completing a real-world project

Boatbuilding teaches far more than construction — it builds confidence, focus, and belonging.

HOW IT WORKS

Programme Structure (2026)

• Duration: 16 Sundays a minium of 8 Sundays is required. They don't have to be consecutive! (Winter Programme)
• Location: BYRA Workshop / Boat Park
• Session Length: 4–6 hours per session
• Age Group: 8–18 years
• Free to Youth participants

Programme stages include:

• Workshop Induction & Safety Training
• Hull & Structural Assembly
• Fairing & Reinforcement
• Foils, Fittings & Rigging
• Painting & Finishing
• Launch Day and Milestone Celebrations
• Transition Into Sailing Pathway

Safety & Supervision

• Delivered by experienced BYRA mentors and supervisors
• Clear workshop safety procedures
• PPE requirements and safe tool systems
• Structured sign-in / sign-out
• Inclusive and supportive learning environment

Safety and wellbeing are our first priority.

After the Build – Learn to Sail

Once launched, participants are supported into BYRA’s junior sailing pathway, which may include:

• Introductory sailing sessions
• Supervised familiarisation sails
• Integration into junior training groups
• Mentored club sailing participation

The goal is simple!

Click Here For EOI Registration - Winter 2027

Build it. Sail it. Stay involved.