Using sailing as a tool for pupil engagement with ASC Portland

ASC Portland’s Pupil Engagement Programme (PEP) uses sailing as a tool to focus on specific attributes such as; teamwork, communication, determination, confidence, creativity and independence.  

Each week we work on a different attribute, with the first session based on determination. 

This will be the students first introduction to sailing, where our experienced and qualified instructors will take them through the basics of sailing and get them out on the water. Students will leave the session having successfully achieved something new, which could be anything from putting on a wetsuit, to entering the water, or even steering the boat.

All sessions are adapted to the group’s needs and abilities, where we work closely with each school to tailor the learning outcomes.

Being on the water provides a unique learning environment, where decision making and communicating with your crew is key. Over the 6 weeks students will have to work together both on and off the water to achieve, making them stronger team players and developing their communication skills.  

Sessions are typically run over 6 weeks with students attending the centre for 3 hours once a week. Timings and session length can be altered to suit each school’s needs.  

Our Pupil Engagement Programme aims to cover the following learning outcomes:  

• Successfully achieve something new 

• Effective use of teamwork 

• Enhanced self-belief 

• Further develop communication skills 

• Increased independence 

• Understanding on different approaches to task 

In 2024, 2 schools from the Weymouth and Portland borough were able to secure funding to attend our PEP programme.

Contact the centre today to see how your school can benefit.  

by Una Wood, Sales & Communications Coordinator for the Andrew Simpson Centre Portland

Una was taught to sail at an early age by her father. After years of teaching all over the world she’s settled in the UK and is now working at ASC Portland.