NATIONAL SAILING ACADEMY

The National Sailing Academy team is building up to the re-opening of the school programme in September and looking forward to seeing returning students, as well as new children, join the programme.

In June, the school hosted its first annual graduation, at which various sailing certificates from Basic Skills through to RYA Stages 1 and 2 were given to 59 girls and 61 boys. It’s the first time in the school’s history that the ratio of girls was this high and the team are looking forward to seeing that trend continue.

Prior to the start of this season, the NSA is asking that all schools interested in being part of the programme to register, or re-register to ensure their spot is available. Watersports Manager Sylvester Thomas says, “Last year we saw increased interest in the programme and through better scheduling were able to increase the number of schools attending. We’d like to continue that growth. When we confirm a schools attendance, the school and students should understand that we have limited spaces, therefore it is very important that the school ensures students can come regularly and that the students who sign up are committing to the full year, and not leaving once they are more interested in another sport”.

For the 2023-24 academic year, the NSA team plan to continue using the RYA syllabus for the school programme and want to encourage those students who already achieved their Stage 1’s to return to continue into Stage 2 and further.

General Manager Alison Sly-Adams is focused on supporting the growth of the school and is reaching out to the business community to assist. “The cost of one student, for the 30-week course is EC$1200/US$450. On average each class has 15 students therefore costing US$6750. The cost covers instructors salaries, rent, and very importantly boat maintenance, safety boat costs and life jackets.” She continues, “Last year we had 14 schools attending the programme which is US$94,500 as well as 5 schools and individuals for the Sailability programme. This year we would like to see the programme grow further. We are therefore looking to the business community and philanthropic-minded citizens to consider supporting a school for the year.”

The school continues to see students develop a love for the sport and the industry helping create a pathway into the industry and widening job opportunities for school leavers.

The school is also launching its Annual Calendar which includes Fun Regattas & Dock Parties, the Youth To Keel Initiative in conjunction with Antigua Sailing Week as well as new for 2024 an inter-schools regatta. The first event takes place on Sunday 27th August and is the August Fun Regatta & Dock Party which includes live music from party band 1761. Entry is free and the bar and grills will be open from midday.