Three of our clients took part in the Ride the Wave surfing programme. These were young people aged 14–16 who, for various reasons – including their home situation and personal difficulties – had not been attending school for quite some time. The surfing programme was incorporated as part of their daily day-care programme at our organisation. We have observed a clearly positive impact from the programme.
Firstly, the programme helped to develop social skills. During the lessons, the young people communicated with different people, worked together, listened to the instructor, followed instructions and dealt with criticism. They also experienced a positive sense of inclusion, both on site and in the water with other surfers. In their own words, they found this a unique experience. During the lessons, and indeed afterwards, they felt they were a genuine part of the surfing community and experienced a strong sense of belonging.
A second positive effect was that the young people learnt to cope with setbacks – both literally and figuratively – and with criticism from both the instructor and strangers. Unlike many academic skills, learning to surf is not a linear process. Achieving a sense of success following prolonged physical exertion was a new, positive experience for them, which greatly boosted their self-confidence.
- Schools & education