Northern Ireland's RYA advocates for expanding sailing initiatives in educational institutions
In Northern Ireland, the Royal Yachting Association (RYA) OnBoard program is making waves as a sailing initiative designed to introduce young people to the sport. The program, which provides a structured environment for children to learn sailing skills and enjoy the benefits of outdoor activity, is expanding across the region, with various clubs and organizations participating.
The program's growing presence is evident in events like the Bright Night Sailing scheme in Larne and activities at Strangford Lough Yacht Club. Clubs such as County Antrim Yacht Club and Strangford Lough Yacht Club are involved, offering sailing opportunities for young people.
The RYA OnBoard program offers numerous benefits. It helps develop sailing skills, encouraging young people to become proficient sailors. Beyond this, the program fosters teamwork, communication, and camaraderie among participants, promoting social skills and confidence. RYA OnBoard also introduces children to the outdoors, promoting physical activity and an appreciation for nature.
The program actively engages with schools, such as Killinchy Primary School, to provide sailing experiences for pupils. This integration helps in promoting the sport and its benefits to a wider audience. RYA OnBoard aims to make sailing accessible to all, regardless of background or prior experience, by offering opportunities for school children to participate.
Feedback for the initiative has been positive, with St. Ciaran's Primary School's Principal expressing gratitude for a "fantastic morning" and the children enjoying the experience. RYA Northern Ireland offers taster days alongside follow-up opportunities for schools and clubs interested in the programme.
P6 teacher at Killinchy Primary School, Claire McBride, has expressed interest in repeating the programme, noting that it provided an opportunity for children who had never been on a boat before. RYA Northern Ireland aims to inspire school children by showing sailing can be accessible and for all. The organisation's goal is to grow the programme so more schools, especially those who might not usually have access to activities like sailing, can get involved.
Interested clubs or schools can contact Jessica Penney at [email protected] to get involved with the RYA OnBoard initiative. RYA Northern Ireland Development Officer, Jessica Penney, expressed hope that the children gain a sense of achievement and pride. Many children participating in the RYA OnBoard programme are trying sailing for the first time, and building courage to try something new is a key aspect of the program.
The programme promotes physical activity and a connection to the outdoors, making it an excellent addition to the education and recreational opportunities available to young people in Northern Ireland.
- The Royal Yachting Association (RYA) OnBoard program, in addition to teaching sailing skills, also fosters home-and-garden values by encouraging young people to appreciate and connect with nature through outdoor living.
- Beyond honing sailing skills, the RYA OnBoard program also aims to enhance learning and self-development by fostering teamwork, communication, and camaraderie among participants, promoting social skills and confidence.
- The RYA OnBoard program extends its reach beyond sailing, aligning with education and self-development objectives, as it encourages physical activity and fosters a love for the outdoors, complementing various home-and-garden, learning, and sports activities.
