GCSE petition

GCSE  PE  and   performing arts types subjects   should include theory, GCSE Music  always has -  even back in the 1990s  it was suggested than you needed g4 /5  theory and if you  were offering. a convetional  instrument  as part of your assessed work  that should be  grade 4/5 . 

 The RYA  may  also wish to consider something  that both the Dance / Drama /Music  awarding bodies and the  Army Cadets / Air Cadets have done which is get  their  qualifications mapped into the  QCF  ( the  performing arts  side are their own awarding bodies - but they have traditionally been more of an exam board with local  organisations teaching to their syllabuses , and  the Cadet organisations   used Pearson under the BTEC brand ) 

RYA L1 and 2 are more like the 11+ than a GCSE, I'd say L3 minimum for GSCE and evidence of racing or 'proper' cruising ability for higher. Sport implies some competitive element so maybe some kind of racing experience should be mandatory?

Geography students only do colouring in maps in the afternoon, mornings they look out the window at clouds and weather.

I think the point should be made, anything that directly impacts sailing in any way should be resisted, taking in mind the curriculum states almost half must be physical, RYA certificate should be enough proof of competence.

As much as I like sailing, I’m not sure this is a bad thing. There are surely more accessible, and physical, activities that can be indulged for a GCSE. Yes, I know hiking and pumping are hard work, but so are sit ups. And it surely makes sense that the qualification should cover theory and human biology? There shouldn’t be GCSEs in just doing your hobby, that is what Sundays are for.
On the other hand sailing has many technical aspects, tuning, tactics etc that are unique. Even if it doesn’t get you a GCSE, it is still helpful to mention them up on a job/university application form.