Courses

Spirit offers a unique experience to young people already engaged with Fairbridge as part of their programme.

Accomodation is basic & young people take part in everything from raising sails & navigation to cooking & cleaning. Once at sea there is no opting out.

Each young person keeps a personal log setting goals & recording achievements. They receive feedback throughout and a final one-to-one looks at how to carry forward progress. Our staff will pass on this information to their home team to ensure that the progress is not lost, but can be built upon further.

Outcomes for young people can include:

Work based skills - time keeping, following instructions, team work, leadership etc.

Independent living skills - health, hygiene, cooking, independent travel etc.

Learning skills - accreditation inc. RYA & ASDAN, literacy, numeracy & ITC awareness.

Community & recreation – making friends, getting on with others, the value of belonging.

Frequently asked questions

Can anyone sail on Spirit?
No. You need to be a young person between the age of 13 and 25 AND already involved with Fairbridge in your own area.

How long are Spirit courses?
Our courses are typically 7 days long including travel time. We are running a few courses for under 16’s which are 3 nights.

What do I need to do before sailing on Spirit?
Am I ready for the challenge?
Speak to your Outreach & Development Worker at your local Fairbridge, ask them if they think you are ready. If they think you are then ask them to help you set a goal, book a course and arrange your travel.

Are there rules onboard?
Yes. Everyone who sails on Spirit agrees to our contract including staff:

• Always abide by safety instructions.
• No drugs or alcohol.
• Not to bully, threaten or be violent.
• Always be inclusive.
• No offensive behaviour/attitudes i.e. sexism, racism.
• Take a full part in everything going on.
• Take responsibility for the things we say or do.
• Support & respect others.
• Try to learn as much as possible.
• Try to have fun.

Who does the cooking?
Everyone takes a turn at cooking for a day. Its hard work but great fun cooking for 18 people in a tiny kitchen (galley) that moves!!

How often will I get ashore?
A Spirit course is about getting away from the outside world however you will get the opportunity to go ashore at least once or twice during the course to explore a remote beach, visit an island or a small fishing village.

What are the toilets like?
There are two toilets (heads) between 18 people & our water supply is limited therefore staying clean can be more challenging than at home.

Where do I sleep?
You’ll have a bunk for the week in one big cabin plus a locker to stow your gear in so its important to be able to keep you own space tidy.

What can I learn about on Spirit?
Sailing, navigation, the environment, cooking, nature, friendship, trust, team work, the list is endless. Most importantly everyone who sails on Spirit usually learns something about themselves and other people.

Can I sail more than once?
Yes. If Spirit staff feel that they are able to help you further and that you have the commitment necessary then we occasionally run even more challenging courses such as Tall Ships.