Sailing through outdoor education

Is there a better way to spend a school day, than on the beach and on the water?

On November 19, around 15 Year 5 and 6 children from Dairy Flat School enjoyed a one-day Learn to Sail introductory course, offered by the Russell Coutts Sailing Foundation based at Manly Sailing Club.

The course has been offered to a number of local primary schools and includes learning about water safety, sailing and caring for the marine environment.

Learn to Sail administrator and coach Leah Collis says the course tries to link core school values, such as respect, responsibility, and ownership to the use and care of the marine environment. “Some schools will do a marine-related project at school and then use this course to provide a practical example,” Leah says.

As well as having a go sailing the Open Bics and Hobies, there is a session about marine debris followed by a beach clean up searching for micro-plastics.

Dairy Flat School principal Debbie Marshall says that sailing fits into the school’s Health and Physical Education curriculum. “Being out in our beautiful coastal environment challenges our students to respond to our environment safely and respect and value the stunning place we are lucky to live in.” Debbie says.

Given the high fun factor of these outdoor sessions, it’s not surprising that some students have taken their new confidence to the next level.

“Three children who were previously very nervous about water, have signed up for the full Learning to Sail course,” Leah says.