EnableAll2011

Report on SYCSA's “Enable All” Project:
Somerset Schools “Give it a Go”
Sailing and Windsurfing Weeks 4th – 21st July 2011

Over three weeks in July 2011, the weather produced some glorious sunny days with gentle breezes. It also gave us the stronger winds when we needed them.
In a brilliantly, exhilarating 3 weeks over 260 young sailors from 10 local schools and colleges took to the water for the first time.
Most schools brought the whole of their final year groups, others brought children from their year 4, 5 and 6 year groups.
One school spent the whole day at the reservoir sailing, doing art work, a science challenge and building a survival shelter.
The excited youngsters could hardly contain themselves as they began the experience of their lifetime.
They all took to the water at Durleigh reservoir in Bridgwater to enjoy their first sailing and windsurfing sessions.
The children had an amazing time, while they were being taught the rudiments of sailing or windsurfing under the watchful eyes and expert tuition of the volunteer Instructors from Somerset Youth & Community Sailing Association (SYCSA) and Durleigh Sailing Club.
Some of the children taking part came from some of the most disadvantaged areas of Sedgemoor, it was clear that they all had a great time and left wanting more sailing or windsurfing sessions.
We anticipate many coming back to sail with SYCSA's Saturday Morning Sailing Club.

All of the children involved received a Royal Yachting Association “Taste of Sailing” certificate to go into their Somerset Children’s University portfolio. The certificates were signed by Sarah Ayton an Olympic sailing gold medallist.
A group of 8 youngsters from Richard Huish college gained either RYA National Sailing Scheme Level 1 or 2 certificates
A second group of 14 from Heathfield School gained either RYA Youth Sailing Scheme Stage 1 or 2 certificates.

All of these opportunities were made possible by grants from Sedgemoor Learning Alliance and Big Lottery "Peoples Millions" fund.

Peter Branson the event organiser commented “we had a great time and made many new friendships, sailing is not only exhilarating but it is also a sociable, healthy outdoor sport, the youngsters were buzzing for the rest of the week when they got back to school, SYCSA is looking forward to repeating the event 2012 and are already looking for sponsorship”.

Some quotes from the very satisfied schools:
"I just wanted to say how much the children enjoyed the sailing sessions this week. It was one of those events that had them really talking the next day. Your student instructors (as well as Barry, of course) were terrific too, being great role models as well as just being so friendly".

"I just wanted to say a massive thank you for yesterday. All of the children really enjoyed the sailing sessions and came back to school so excited and enthused about the experience. Thank you for all your hard work in organising the day it's much appreciated"