12 May 2025

Ardent Training, founded in 2020 by Edd and Charly Hewett, has launched a major update to its flagship RYA Day Skipper Online Theory Course.

This latest version embraces a #DigitalFirst approach, aligning with recent revisions to the RYA syllabus to better equip modern sailors for the tools and techniques they actually use on the water.

“Our #DigitalFirst approach isn’t about replacing paper charts,” explains Charly Hewett. “It’s about teaching seamless integration of apps, chartplotters, and online data—so skippers understand every tool, whether screens are live or they must fall back on paper.”

Why #DigitalFirst?

Since the UK Hydrographic Office’s announcement to phase out paper charts, the RYA and international authorities have moved to officially recognize electronic navigation on yachts. “Digital First” reflects that shift: students learn the fundamentals of plotting and fixing positions on paper—and then apply exactly the same principles on chartplotting apps and ECDIS-like interfaces. This dual approach builds deeper understanding and prepares skippers for any scenario, including GNSS outages or future regulatory changes.

Key Enhancements
 

• Digital Navigation Focus – New content replicates the real-world use of apps, digital charts, and online data sources that sailors increasingly rely on.
• Enhanced Visuals – Sharper graphics and updated diagrams provide greater clarity on complex topics.
• Improved Video and Audio – All course content has been upgraded for a more engaging and professional experience.
• Subtitles Added – Every video lesson now includes subtitles to enhance accessibility and usability across environments.

Students retain full access to the original course format and automatically receive the new #DigitalFirst version at no extra cost. Two parallel tracks—“Classic” and “DigitalFirst”—allow learners to choose whether they wish to focus on paper-based practice, digital workflows, or both in tandem.

Availability & Enrollment

The updated course goes live tomorrow! Current students can simply log in to their Ardent Training dashboard to begin either version immediately. Enrollment remains open year-round at www.ardent-training.com.