Scope

Term from Sailing Instruction industry explained for recruiters

Scope is a certification level and teaching authority in sailing instruction. It defines what types of boats, conditions, and areas an instructor is qualified to teach in. For example, some instructors might have a "basic keelboat scope" meaning they can teach beginners on smaller boats in protected waters, while others might have "offshore scope" allowing them to teach advanced sailing in open ocean conditions. Think of it like different levels of teaching licenses, but for sailing instruction. When you see this term in resumes, it tells you exactly what level and type of sailing instruction someone is qualified to deliver.

Examples in Resumes

Certified instructor with Scope for basic through advanced keelboat instruction

Extended teaching Scope to include offshore passage making certification

Maintained current Scope certifications for all ASA levels 101-104

Typical job title: "Sailing Instructors"

Also try searching for:

Sailing Instructor Marine Educator Keelboat Instructor ASA Instructor RYA Instructor On-Water Instructor Boating Safety Instructor

Where to Find Sailing Instructors

Example Interview Questions

Senior Level Questions

Q: How do you adapt your teaching approach for different student skill levels within your scope?

Expected Answer: Look for answers that demonstrate experience in customizing teaching methods, managing mixed-ability groups, and ensuring safety while maintaining learning progression for all students.

Q: What factors do you consider when deciding whether conditions are within your teaching scope?

Expected Answer: Candidate should discuss weather assessment, student capabilities, boat limitations, and safety considerations in relation to their certification level.

Mid Level Questions

Q: How do you maintain and update your scope certifications?

Expected Answer: Should mention continuing education, renewal processes, and staying current with sailing instruction standards and safety protocols.

Q: What documentation do you maintain related to your teaching scope?

Expected Answer: Should discuss record-keeping of certifications, student progress tracking, and incident reporting within their authorized teaching scope.

Junior Level Questions

Q: What does your current teaching scope allow you to teach?

Expected Answer: Should clearly explain their certification level, what types of boats they can teach on, and under what conditions they're authorized to instruct.

Q: How do you ensure you're teaching within your scope limitations?

Expected Answer: Should demonstrate understanding of their certification boundaries and when to defer to more experienced instructors.

Experience Level Indicators

Junior (0-2 years)

  • Basic keelboat instruction certification
  • Teaching in protected waters
  • Basic safety protocols
  • Fundamental sailing instruction

Mid (2-5 years)

  • Multiple boat type certifications
  • Coastal navigation instruction
  • Weather assessment
  • Advanced safety management

Senior (5+ years)

  • Offshore instruction qualification
  • Multiple certification authorities
  • Instructor trainer status
  • Program development expertise

Red Flags to Watch For

  • Teaching beyond certified scope level
  • Expired certifications
  • Unclear about scope limitations
  • Poor safety awareness
  • Lack of current first aid certification