Irish Sailing is delighted to announce that it has become an official Gaisce- The President’s Award partner, recognising sailing, boating and seamanship as valuable opportunities for young people aged 14-25 undertaking Gaisce, Ireland’s national youth development award.
Through accredited Irish Sailing Training Centres, Gaisce participants can use their involvement in sailing and boating to support the four Gaisce Challenge Areas of Personal Skill, Physical Recreation, Community Involvement and Adventure Journey.
Becoming a Challenge Partner creates an important opportunity to connect Gaisce with Irish Sailing’s national education and training programmes. Young people can develop practical sailing, boating and seamanship skills, participate regularly in the sport, undertake adventures afloat and volunteer within their Clubs and Training Centres.
Colum McCaffrey, Training Manager with Irish Sailing said:
“This partnership fits extremely well with how we want young people to develop through Irish Sailing. Gaisce gives us another way to encourage participation, support ongoing skills development through our wider Programme Approach to learning, and keep young people involved in sailing, boating and watersports.
“It also creates some really valuable opportunities for junior members to take on more responsibility within their own Clubs and Training Centres, progressing from participation into volunteering and leadership pathways."
Irish Sailing’s Gaisce partnership is available through participating accredited Training Centres, providing a safe and structured way for young people to connect their Gaisce Award with their ongoing participation and skills development on the water.
For further information on how your Club or Training Centre can get involved, contact the Irish Sailing Training Department at: training@sailing.ie