Reflecting on Six Weeks of OnBoard fun at Largs

With 2025 marking 20 years of the RYA’s OnBoard programme, RYA Scotland is reflecting on a transformative six-week programme delivered at Largs Sail Training Association (LSTA). Running from May to June, the effort saw 12 young people take to the water to hone new skills and unlock a new passion.

As the RYA's grassroots sailing and windsurfing programme, OnBoard offers children the opportunity to try watersports through their local club or centre in a safe, fun and structured environment.

A series of OnBoard sessions at LSTA was made possible through a partnership between LSTA, the Ayrshire Outdoor Partnership, Active Schools North Ayrshire and RYA Scotland, maximising impact of the programme and leveraging the many positive principles OnBoard stands for – including character development.

The Power of Outdoor Learning Post-COVID

In recent years, particularly in the wake of the pandemic, focus has been placed on the wide-ranging benefits of challenging outdoor activities for young people. Beyond formal academic learning, activities like sailing can help build perseverance, communication, independence, and resilience.

The OnBoard programme was built on these foundations, backed by research led by Professor Bill Lucas, Director of the Centre for Real-World Learning at the University of Winchester. Using sailing as a powerful tool to build character and life skills in young people, this approach focuses on six core personal attributes - Confidence, Teamwork, Communication, Determination, Creativity and Independence - which now underpin all OnBoard activities.

Bringing OnBoard to Life at Largs

Hailed a ‘transformative’ experience for the 12 young participants from North Ayrshire, this programme gave youngsters who otherwise may not have tried sailing the opportunity to get afloat.

Over six weeks, these participants were introduced to the fundamentals of the sport in a supportive, structured environment. They learned not just how to handle a boat and read the wind - but how to persist through difficulty, make independent decisions, and grow in confidence.

Reflecting on the sessions, Instructor Eva Farnell said:

“Their confidence 100% has increased. The guys I met at the start of the six weeks have grown and have come out of their shell, definitely.

“Their problem solving skills especially have improved.”

Agreeing with Eva, Senior Instructor Yuan Wong said:

“They have grown in confidence. The first time we met them they were quiet and didn’t want to speak, but now they're running about the sailing club and having lots of fun.”

To hear more from the sailors themselves, head to YouTube for the full video wrap up.

From the start, the programme aimed to do more than just deliver taster sessions. It sought to embed sailing within the lives of these young people and give them tools that extend far beyond their time afloat.

Participants made new friends, learned vital water safety skills, explored the science of wind and weather, and earned recognised RYA sailing qualifications - paving the way for continued involvement through LSTA’s cadet nights in the future.

A Model of Partnership and Planning

This six week delivery block was a product of clear planning, community connection, and a shared belief in what young people can achieve when given the right opportunities.

From identifying a suitable venue and securing funding, to training instructors and promoting sessions through the Active Schools network, every step was designed with sustainability and inclusivity in mind, with Active Schools North Ayrshire coordinating outreach, transportation, and pastoral support for participants.

The end result? A new generation of sailors were introduced to a sport they may never have encountered otherwise - one they now have the chance to make part of their weekly lives.

Reflecting on the six week programme, Vince McWhirter of the Ayrshire Outdoor Partnership said:

“There’s enthusiasm in the young people, a keenness to learn more, an increase in communication and camaraderie between them – the feedback from them is fantastic.

“They want to do more, they want to continue with the cadet club and learn more skills. So, for six weeks, this has been an outstanding success.”

Looking Ahead

If your club, school, or organisation is interested in embarking on a similar journey, support is available. Reach out to your RYA Scotland Regional Development Officer to learn what it takes to become an OnBoard centre, access funding, and be part of the growing OnBoard legacy.