Sail Training builds self-confidence and resilience
A sailing boat, particularly a large sail training vessel, requires an incredibly diverse set of skills to operate well. There is always a job to do; from sail handling to doing the dishes, from steering the ship to keeping a log, making repairs, cooking, making the tea and navigation. It is rare that one individual excels in doing everything, but place a group together and it never ceases to amaze people what they are capable of, when they become part of a crew.
You never really know what will happen when you first go offshore, how you will cope; perhaps things that you thought you might find easy in fact aren’t. But you will almost definitely discover a hidden ability that allows you to shine when you get over the horizon, not only making you a valued member of the crew, but giving new confidence and resilience when you step back ashore.
That’s why at The Norfolk Boat we love to hear how young people benefit from their voyages. Below is a recent report from the Ocean Youth Trust South about Gordon’s trip out to sea with them:
‘The skipper commented that it was clear that Gordon was proud to be able to bring his own experience and knowledge to his watch, excelling at the practical tasks and keen to do as much as possible. He took responsibility for tasks such as sail hoists, and making cups of tea for everyone – even in the bigger seas. This kindness extended to all of his interactions, and meant he often offered to wash up etc. Filling in the logbook and other written tasks were harder for him but he made up for that in other ways.
If he wants to keep sailing with us then he has the potential to become a solid watch leader in a few years’ time, as his maturity develops alongside his ability to pick up social cues. If there is an area for him to work on then it might be developing his ability to impart his undoubted knowledge to others, building his skills in teaching and leading people; and also, developing his own strategies to master those areas of navigation which require some writing.He would definitely be very welcome to sail with us again in future if he wants.’
