Lincolnshire Schools Embrace Sailing
by Karenza Morton.
Date: 14 August 2010
Lincolnshire Schools Embrace Sailing To Help Tackle Emotional And Behavioural Issues
Three Lincolnshire schools specialising in emotional and behavioural difficulties are the latest to use sailing to help their students’ social and learning development through RYA OnBoard at the Lincoln and District Sailing Association (LDSA).
Pupils from Mary Knox Education Centre, Lady Jane Franklin School and Sincil Sports College attended weekly sessions at LDSA, based at Hykeham Sailing Club at Apex Lake, learning the ropes under the guidance of expert RYA instructors as part of the RYA’s OnBoard nationwide grassroots sailing initiative.
All the pupils, regardless of age, ability or background, had the opportunity to gain recognised RYA achievement certificates in dinghy sailing while mixing with a wide variety of other youngsters from a range of backgrounds.
As a sport which demands concentration and teamwork, while providing the enjoyment of being outdoors and the novelty of being something many of the pupils will never have experienced before, sailing is an activity in which anyone can excel. It also provides the chance for pupils, who may not enjoy traditional schools sports activities, to regularly take part in a different type of physical activity.
Caring and Stimulating Environment
Mick Parsons, LDSA Sailing Development Officer, explained: "After a few weeks the children discover they can reach the same level as the other children, and sometimes excel, which provides them with a newfound confidence and they want more. They often sit down and chat with the other children, joining in with the groups and attending the annual LDSA schools’ regatta.
"The children change their behaviour when at the club, with less swearing, showing respect for the equipment and facilities, wanting to learn more and achieve certification in dinghy sailing. Some of those with bad attendance records also start attending the sailing on a regular basis.
"LDSA provides a safe, caring and stimulating environment enabling relevant and meaningful learning to take place. Every child can achieve their maximum potential in both their learning and social development to become increasingly responsible and caring individuals".
Supported by TEAMORIGIN, Britain's Challenge for the America's Cup, RYA OnBoard is working to introduce half a million children to sailing and windsurfing over 10 years by giving schools, youth organisations and community groups the chance to take advantage of improved access to the sports while providing their youngsters with increasing opportunities to continue participating.
For more information about LDSA visit l-dsa.org.uk while details about RYA OnBoard can be found at ruob.co.uk.
