A milestone in outdoor education was celebrated as schools, sailing staff and community leaders marked 20 years of the OnBoard programme at Hollingworth Lake in Rochdale.
OnBoard, run by the Royal Yachting Association (RYA), has helped over 1.3 million children try sailing or windsurfing since it began. Hollingworth Lake was one of the first two centres in the country to launch the scheme in 2004. There are now more than 300 clubs and centres across the UK involved.
RYA OnBoard manager Hannah Cockle said: “We’re really proud to be back at Hollingworth Lake. This was one of the first clubs to take part and it's been brilliant to see what it’s become. Sailing here has given so many young people a start they never thought they’d have.”
She said the programme has opened doors for pupils across Rochdale. “Some have gone on to be instructors, some into the marine industry, and we’ve even had an Olympic silver medallist come through this club,” said Hannah. “But it’s not just about sport. Sailing teaches teamwork, problem-solving, and confidence.”
RYA chief executive Sarah Sutcliffe also attended the event and said she was delighted to see pupils from two local schools getting out on the water.
“There’s a real buzz about the place,” said Sarah. “You can see the excitement on their faces. Getting onto the water is a big step for some children. It builds resilience. Once you’re on a boat, you have to think for yourself and work together. That stays with you.”
Sarah added: “We’re only able to do this because of the partnerships we have with schools, local authorities and clubs. The fact that the mayor and councillors came down today shows just how strong that support is in Rochdale.”
- 20 years of the OnBoard programme at Hollingworth Lake
- 20 years of the OnBoard programme at Hollingworth Lake
- 20 years of the OnBoard programme at Hollingworth Lake
- 20 years of the OnBoard programme at Hollingworth Lake
- 20 years of the OnBoard programme at Hollingworth Lake
- 20 years of the OnBoard programme at Hollingworth Lake
- 20 years of the OnBoard programme at Hollingworth Lake
- 20 years of the OnBoard programme at Hollingworth Lake
- 20 years of the OnBoard programme at Hollingworth Lake
- 20 years of the OnBoard programme at Hollingworth Lake
- 20 years of the OnBoard programme at Hollingworth Lake
- 20 years of the OnBoard programme at Hollingworth Lake
One of the schools taking part was Greenbank Primary. Executive headteacher Sandra Hartley said outdoor learning is a key part of their curriculum.
“We’ve always believed that children should have access to the same opportunities as anyone else,” she said. “We managed to get funding to buy our own sailing boats and we keep them here at the lake. But we also let other Rochdale schools use them when we’re not. It’s not just about our pupils.”
Sandra said many families at her school wouldn’t otherwise be able to afford these kinds of activities. “We never charge for any of it,” she said. “That’s really important to us. We want every child to get the very best, no matter what their background is.”
She said her pupils see sailing as a normal part of school life. “They love it. They come into school smiling every day. It’s just part of who we are now.”
Looking ahead, all three said they want to see more young people given the same chance.
“We want to reach children who don’t usually see this as something for them,” said Hannah. “It’s about being active, feeling included, and trying something different.”
Sarah said the RYA plans to get another million children onto the water over the next ten years.
Sandra added: “Some schools just need a bit of encouragement. We’re happy to share what we’ve got and help them get started.”
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