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From September 2025, Les Ateliers de l'Enfer will be making major changes to its training courses in sailmaking and nautical saddlery. Two recognized professional qualifications will replace the former CQP certificates, and a sandwich course in sailmaking will be offered. This development meets both the needs of the field and the expectations of young people wishing to learn a manual nautical trade.
The end of CQPs: towards national recognition of skills
The "sailboat worker" and "nautical saddlery worker" training courses, historically certified by Certificats de Qualification Professionnelle (CQP), have now been replaced by two new level IV vocational qualifications, registered in the Répertoire national des certifications professionnelles :
- Sailing Technician (RNCP40679)
- Nautical saddlery technician (RNCP40680)
This development enables national recognition of the skills acquired, eligibility for the Personal Training Account (CPF), and greater recognition of the career path by employers. For trainees, these titles facilitate bridges between regions and professions. For professionals, they provide a clearer profile.
Educational content tailored to today's challenges
The programs have been revised to incorporate modern materials and specific repair techniques. In addition to the change in certification, the content has been completely reworked to reflect the realities of the trade. Sailmaker training now includes in-depth modules on machine technology, traditional and composite materials, repairs on technical sails (membranes, classic sails, kitesurfing, windsurfing) and an introduction to saddlery.
An important place is also given to nautical culture and knowledge of the professional sector, essential to better understand the expectations of customers and shipyards.
The first sandwich course of its kind in France
It's a national first: sailboat technician training can be taken on a sandwich course in Douarnenez. Apprenticeships enable young people to spend over 70% of their time on the job, while taking technical courses at the training center.
This format reinforces the acquisition of practical skills in the field. For companies, it's a way of passing on know-how, while benefiting from hiring incentives. For apprentices, it's a direct route to employment.
A strategic turning point for Ateliers de l'Enfer
Since their merger with the Institut Nautique de Bretagne (INB) in 2024, Ateliers de l'Enfer has benefited from an extended network and enhanced logistical support. This merger has enabled us to pool our teaching resources while maintaining the local, artisanal identity of our training courses.
This new impetus is part of a strategy to structure the industry, with the stated aim of training professionals who are operational as soon as they leave the center.
Last days to apply for the start of the 2025 academic year
Registrations are still open, both for young people and for companies. A few places are still available to join the training courses at the start of the 2025 academic year. Applications can be submitted online via the official Ateliers de l'Enfer website. Sailmakers interested in taking on an apprentice can contact the establishment by telephone. For the sector, this is a concrete opportunity to strengthen the training of future nautical craftsmen.
