CHINESE visitors to Poole are being taught watersports by internationally recognised training company Rockley.

The Poole-based company was selected to deliver sailing and watersports courses to nine Chinese visitors.

The students took part in a full programme of RYA Instructor Training at Rockley's main UK centre in Poole.

Following a recent RYA seminar in Shanghai on developing sailing centres, the RYA nominated Rockley to deliver specific training for a selection of Chinese representatives.

As the chosen training provider, Rockley's structured RYA instructor training schedule provided the skills and experience necessary for their students to complete the RYA Dinghy and Powerboat Instructor courses along with all associated training.

Pip Woods, Rockley managing director said: "We are proud to have been selected as the designated RYA training provider to our Chinese visitors.

"This will give us the opportunity to pass on the skills they need that will ultimately help them develop the sport of sailing at grass roots level in China.

"We have a wealth of experience and a proven track record of providing successful instructor training both nationally and internationally.

"We have worked with many centres and organisations including Oman Sail, Sail Bermuda and Korean Sailing Association to name but a few."

This RYA Instructor training will act as the first steps to China being able to offer more sailing and watersports with the aim of developing their own RYA training centres and specific training facilities.

With their 40th anniversary approaching, Rockley is now regarded as the market leader in providing watersports training. Recognised for its exceptional standard of tuition by the RYA - the national governing body for sailing - it is chosen by individuals nationally and internationally who want to become fully RYA instructor qualified.

Last week the Echo revealed that Twynham and Purbeck Schools are taking part in the Shanghai Maths Project which involves learning good practice from China.