Eleanor W (Year 10) and Anna B (Year 9), are making waves with the Tall Ships Youth Trust, embarking on an Empowerment Voyage aboard a 72-foot yacht.
Last year, the duo took part in an Exploration Voyage, setting sail from Portsmouth to Cowes and Poole before returning to Portsmouth. During this week-long trip, they earned their RYA Start Yachting Certificate, learning the fundamentals of sailing such as helming, ropework and sail handling, as well as taking turns cooking, cleaning, and steering the yacht as part of the crew’s Port and Starboard teams.
Following their strong performance, both Eleanor and Anna were invited to become Junior Trainee Watch Leaders, a recognition of their enthusiasm and capability on board.
Reflecting on the experience, Eleanor shared, “I’ve learnt how to be part of a crew on a large yacht, including how the sails and various ropes work, and enjoyed being part of a team in somewhat challenging conditions sailing in the UK during the winter.”
For Anna, the voyage was about stepping up and taking initiative: “I have been able to gain leadership skills, getting to tell the crew how to put a sail up and getting to helm the boat. In addition, I’ve learnt a lot about teamwork and communication, spending a week with people I did not know and working closely with them on new and difficult tasks.”
Both pupils overcame challenges and experienced thrilling moments. Eleanor recalls sitting over the side of the boat to help balance it in exhilarating 50-knot winds, as well as learning how sensitive the steering is and using technology to assist with navigation bearings. Anna recalls facing seasickness near the rough waters of the Needles in the Isle of Wight, overcoming it by learning to focus on the horizon and staying on deck.
Beyond the Classroom
This December, they returned for the next stage: the Empowerment Voyage, a more challenging experience that develops leadership and decision-making skills through longer passages and overnight sailing. Over six days, they worked towards their RYA Competent Crew Certificate, learning to lead and make decisions as a team, setting goals for the future, embracing challenges and taking greater responsibility for the yacht.
When asked what advice they would give to others, Eleanor encouraged, “Just give it a go even if you haven’t sailed before there’s so much support and encouragement.” Anna added, “Throw yourself completely into it, make the most of every opportunity and be eager to help in any situation, it’s the best way to learn and stand out.”
Both are keen to continue pursuing sailing adventures and further qualifications.
