Annual AHOY sailing
The Candlelight Trust became aware of the AHOY Sailing centre in Deptford, South East London in 2011. St John Baptist School wanted to send children to utilize this facility as part of its Irresistible Learning Programme and so The Candlelight Trust set about raising funds to support the initiative.
A longstanding relationship
By 2016, and through match funding with the RNVR and The Alfred & Peggy Harvey Trust, it was possible to commit to funding a program whereby 120 children across 4 local schools could attend sailing lessons. The feedback was hugely positive and so began what has now become an annual event.
In 2017 The Alfred & Peggy Harvey Trust was closing down and as part of the disbursement of remaining funds The Candlelight Trust was asked to take on management of these funds. This was passed to us on the understanding that these funds would be utilised to continue to run the annual sailing initiative for as long as the funds lasted.
Who are AHOY ?
Details of the AHOY sailing centre can be found on their website HERE although we feel that the following describes the essence of the organisation in summary:
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What is the background to AHOY?
AHOY is a charitable organisation that aims to change lives through sailing and rowing. Established in 2003, AHOY is located in Deptford on the south bank of the river Thames in a disadvantaged area of London where rates of poverty, unemployment, single parent families, disengaged young people, truancy and lack of opportunities are high.
What do AHOY do ?
AHOY’s primary objective is to work with disadvantaged young people and people with disabilities in order to break down barriers and divides between people from different walks of life and backgrounds. Sailing and rowing are two of very few sports that the able bodied and disabled can participate in on equal terms.
AHOY teach and train the children not only how to sail or row but also how to use their new skills to go on and teach and help others. There is a major focus on social cohesion, teamwork and personal development and through the courses and activities they look to build self-esteem and self-confidence.
What do our children think ?
We believe the experience is highly beneficial to the children who attend sail training. Here are some of the things they have to say:
