OUTDOOR EDUCATION

Outdoor Education Sailing Excursion to Geelong Eastern Beach

On the 12th and 13th of May the VCE Outdoor Education class ventured to Geelong Eastern Beach to participate in 2 days of sailing with the Victorian Sailing School. Due to the weather conditions the students were challenged to say the least. They braved some tough winds to learn some new and challenging  skills, and all came out winners.

On day one we went out in 35-knot winds in 2 larger sailing boats (Dolphins), with assistance from 2 experienced sailors.  At 35 knots, these sorts of winds require significant knowledge and skills with working the boat and reading the weather conditions, so it made sense to go out with the instructors in larger, safer boats. We all came home that day dry and happy to go out for day 2.

Day 2 brought with it lighter, 25 knot winds and smaller sailing boats (Envy 4.3 Dinghies). This time the students were left to their own devise to manage the smaller 3-crew boats with guidance from the 2 instructors in their neighbouring speedboats. The students did me proud to go out in these winds and quickly, developed skills necessary to make turns and navigate their boat through a course. We lasted the session with only one boat going for a swim. The students came in with smiles on their faces, some more wet than others.

This Outdoor Education class had fun, participating in a thrilling activity, designed to develop their skills and confidence in an outdoor activity thereby improving their relationship and bond with the outdoors. I believe all students walked away from these two days with a strong sense of achievement and learnt with perseverance new skills can be developed where most would not have these opportunities.

A great class, a great excursion in great conditions!

Daniel Taylor

Head of VET Sport and Recreation