Support us2025-02-24T09:46:10+00:00

We thrive thanks to the help of our supporters, volunteers and partners in raising the aspirations of young people who face social, economic or educational challenges.

Become a personal sponsor

STT is dedicated to harnessing the unique benefits of sail training, providing young people with an enriching experience that broadens their horizons and equips them with essential life skills.

Our programme delivers rapid improvements in participants’ behaviour and self-esteem, and within just a few weeks of enrolment, we witness a transformation in their attitudes, aspirations and vision for their future. With the STT Personal Sponsorship Scheme, your contribution of £1,308.45 supports one young person throughout an entire year, enabling them to accumulate valuable commercial marine qualifications and crucial life skills.

Your involvement plays a vital role in helping these young individuals acquire skills like teamwork, effective communication, and responsibility. As a Personal Sponsor, you’ll closely follow their progress through newsletters, social media updates, and exclusive events. Your support not only transforms lives but also strengthens our supportive community, creating a brighter future for all.

Volunteer with us

We are constantly seeking people with a passion to develop young people through sailing.

We have volunteer roles available in sailing and activity support as well as behind the scenes roles. Please get in touch if you would like to find out more about our volunteering opportunities.

Make a donation

Your donation is a direct investment in the futures of young people through our not-for-profit programme.

Your generous support will provide underprivileged youth access to the transformative world of sailing. We are grateful for any amount donated and all money goes directly into to the STT programme.

Thank you

We want to say a big thank you to all those organisations and individuals who continue to support PSTT year on year including, but not limited to:

Trinity House

Joseph Stannah Foundation

Will Houghton Foundation

The Whirlwind Charitable Trust

Highfields Trust CIO

Wickens Family Foundation

The Worshipful Company of Shipwrights

The M M Wyllie Charitable Trust

TK Foundation

Lockheed Martin

Your questions answered

What is the Sail Training Trust?2025-02-24T09:32:48+00:00

The Sail Training Trust, also known as STT, is a not-for-profit organisation which provides maritime training, qualifications and mentoring to young people, helping to raise their aspirations, improve their life skills and create career opportunities.

STT began life as the Portsmouth Sail Training Trust in 2013, supporting young people in the Portsmouth region.  Joining forces with the Andrew Simpson Foundation has enabled us to extend our reach nationwide, utilising their centres to deliver our programmes to more young people. We are currently now delivering our programmes in locations such as Portland, Plymouth, Birmingham and Reading.

Who can join a STT programme?2025-02-24T09:33:11+00:00

We have built strong relationships with schools and community groups, to provide opportunities for young people who will benefit the most from this programme. Young people who are deemed most at need, are nominated by their teachers or community group leaders to participate in the programme

How much does it cost?2023-09-13T10:45:21+01:00

We are a not-for-profit organisation and rely on the generous support of our funders to make the programme fully subsidised with no cost to the families, schools and individuals enrolled in the programme.

What sort of qualifications can I gain?2023-09-13T10:45:55+01:00

As well as providing valuable life skills, the programme also provides Royal Yachting Association (RYA) training both on and off the water. This ranges from sailing qualifications in dinghies, keelboats and yachts, powerboating qualifications, first aid and diesel engine maintenance and much more.

Does it replace traditional school or college?2023-09-13T10:46:34+01:00

No. PSTT is an enrichment programme for young people during school hours (usually half-day sessions each week) which has proven benefits for increased engagement and focus for the students once they are back in the classroom.

How old do you have to be?2023-09-13T10:49:02+01:00

We typically work with school years 7 to 11, which includes young people aged 11 up to 16. In some circumstances we are able to accept primary school or college aged young people, so please get in touch to talk to us about your individual situation.

Do I need any existing skills in sailing or swimming?2023-09-13T10:49:50+01:00

No, not at all. We teach the absolute basics of all the skills on the programme and due to safety equipment and clothing we provide, you don’t even need to be able to swim.

Do you support young people with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND)2023-09-13T10:55:13+01:00

Yes, many of the young people on our programme have special educational needs or disabilities, and we work closely with teachers and SENCO’s to provide opportunities and bespoke support for any young person who would benefit from our programme.

Who do I speak to if I have questions or want to join the programme?2025-02-24T09:34:33+00:00

You can speak to any of our team who would be happy to answer any questions and talk you through the programme and how to sign up. Please give us a call on 02390 663873 during standard working hours or email us on hello@sailtrainingtrust.org.

If you have any other questions, please speak to one of our team members on 02390 663873 or send us a message online.

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