The salty air, the rolling waves, and the thrill of the open water – Year 4 recently embarked on their first sailing adventure at the Sandringham Yacht Club! Despite a particularly windy day, the students dove headfirst into the world of sailing, learning valuable skills and creating unforgettable memories.

Our day began with a hands-on introduction to the intricate world of sailing. We mastered the art of tying nautical knots, a crucial skill for any sailor! We also explored the various parts of the boat, understanding their functions and importance. The instructors, patient and knowledgeable, guided us through the basics of steering, ensuring we were ready to take control of our own Optimist dinghies.

Unfortunately, the powerful winds prevented us from raising the sails, but that didn’t dampen our spirits. We bravely took to the water in our Optimists, experiencing the thrill of navigating the waves firsthand. While a few of us took an unexpected dip, the laughter and camaraderie made it all part of the adventure!

This experience wasn’t just about fun and games. It was a fantastic practical application of our current unit on forces. We learned about the “no-go zone,” understanding how wind direction affects a boat’s movement. We also discovered the importance of positioning the sail correctly to harness the wind’s power and the precision required for effective steering.

Teamwork was a key component of our day. We helped each other launch and retrieve our boats, and cheered each other on as we navigated the choppy waters. The experience fostered a sense of unity and resilience among the students.

Thank you to the parents who came down to watch and support this new sailing program. A huge thank you to the Sandringham Yacht Club instructors for their expertise and enthusiasm. They made our first sailing experience both educational and incredibly enjoyable. Despite the challenging wind, Year 4 proved they are a crew of brave and adaptable sailors! We look forward to our next voyage!

Awatif and Emma
Year 4 Teachers