Why use Sail Training for youthwork?
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- Published on Monday, 04 July 2011 17:02
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Sail Training is a challenging and fun way to develop self-confidence and change lives. It provides an intense, structured environment with defined boundaries and a clear common purpose: the successful completion of a voyage. Participants learn to manage themselves and interact with others, dramatically boosting their self-awareness and confidence.
There are no contrived situations on a Sail Training voyage: you really do need to work together in order to achieve a successful outcome. In addition, the sheer exhilaration of harnessing the elements engenders enthusiasm and a feeling of achievement.
There is a 10 minute video about the Sail Training experience on this site under 'What is Sail Training?'
Many successful youth organisations use Sail Training as part of their programme. Amongst others, these include Fairbridge, the Wheatsheaf Trust, the Princes Trust, the Scouts and Sea Cadets. Even the NHS have got involved by supporting the Cat Zero programme that has shown exceptional results.
Occupational Therapy Article by Rachel Wright, courtesy of COT/OTnews and OT News February cover
Testimonials from trainees on board Alba Endeavour and Explorer
Westward Quest
As well as a vast amount of anecdotal evidence, several research papers on the effectiveness of Sail Training have been published:
University of Edinburgh: The Characteristics and Value of the Sail Training Experience
The full research paper can be found here
Luke McCarthy (Dissertation for Msc in Youth Participation): Comparing Sail Training and landbased youth development activities
Young Endeavour Youth Scheme & The University of Sydney: Sailing into the Future
Links to more research can be found on the pages of Sail Training International
