Issue date
Nearly 1300 students have taken part in the Volvo Sailing…Have a Go! programme so far this summer, and schools can still register to sign up for term 1.
The Volvo Sailing…Have a Go! programme is Yachting New Zealand’s initiative to connect children and schools to their local yacht club, hopefully helping to attract new sailors to the sport.
Yachting New Zealand are finalising bookings for Volvo Sailing…Have a Go! in term 1, 2019, and there are still slots available for schools interested. It is suitable for children in years 4-8.
Three instructors, armed with a trailer full of boats and everything else you need to go sailing, travel the country with the aim of giving kids a fun and safe sailing experience.
The programme is now into its 13th season and last year about 3500 children were introduced to the sport. Clubs are provided with the contact details of the kids who showed an interest in knowing more about sailing for them to follow up.
“We had a brilliant week with [southern region instructor] Simon McVeagh and Sumner School,” Christchurch Yacht Club commodore Richard Ineson said. “It is a great way to introduce potential new sailors and we will follow up with all participants and offer a holiday learn to sail programme.”
Sailing is a great activity for schools as part of their education outside the classroom curriculum, as it pushes kids outside of their comfort zone, encouraging independence and problem solving and promoting safety in and around the water.
“I loved seeing the kids challenging themselves,” a teacher from Heathcote Valley School said. “Very knowledgeable staff, who were supportive towards the kids. I’d definitely let other teachers know about the programme.”
Hastings Christian School had a great day at the Napier Sailing Club.
On top of the Volvo Sailing... Have a Go! programme, there will also be a range of have-a-go days during the school holidays.
For more information or to secure a slot in the Volvo Sailing... Have a Go! programme for your school, please contact Danika on (09) 361 4028 or danika@yachtingnz.org.nz, or see here.
