“When students are exposed to challenges where they are responsible for something other than themselves, it puts them in a position where they must be open to hearing other ideas and negotiating as a group so that they all play a part and have input.

On this trip there were plenty of opportunities where our students had to lead, but also be an active and positive ‘follower’ which is almost just as important in dynamic group situations.”

“The day we boarded Lion NZ the weather was very light, but I heavily enjoyed getting the sails up and seeing the sails set for the first time. It was a once in a lifetime opportunity and I thank you for letting me experience it.”

“This experience was genuinely the highlight of students five years at Alfriston College. When they shared their trip reflections on the final day, it was very moving to hear the many things they would take away from this journey, how they would apply it to their lives and their insights into themselves and those around them during the trip.

At the end of the four-day expedition aboard this yacht, the students disembarked with a massive sense of achievment. They had all played their roles to sail around Great Barrier Island working together as a team and respecting each individual person’s contribution.”

“Thank you to the crew. You were absolutely fantastic; your knowledge, your stories and your kind hearts made the trip so unique. Through this experience we have learnt so many things, not only about sailing but about leadership and the strong characteristics and the values of the yachts rightful skipper: Sir Peter Blake, who we all have a huge admiration for.”

“Many things have been learned on our trips: the history of the boats and crew, visiting new places, having a go at all the tasks which were new to them, the importance of teamwork, the importance of packing everything that was on the gear list, looking after the boat and each other.

The crew have always been outstanding. They have great people skills and gently encourage students to try everything, not to mention their obvious sailing skills.”

“The goals and ethos of the trust are totally in line with the aims and objectives we have for our students at a pivotal time in their lives.

The time on the yachts enhances areas such as teamwork, not only in sailing but also in living together where cooperation, support and empathy are crucial. The very nature of the experience builds resilience and perseverance, at times in very challenging circumstances. The boys learn real life lessons whilst being on board.

The iconic yachts not only offer a fabulous experience and opportunity to learn to sail, one which has been taken up afterwards by many of our students. They also give our students a link to New Zealand’s incredible sailing history and very real link to Sir Peter Blake and his legendary leadership abilities. Students are able to learn and practice real life leadership lessons on a yacht with leadership history and in an environment where it really does matter, it’s not just theory.

This is extended to developing more awareness of conservation, our environment and wildlife whilst using and visiting the wonders of the Hauraki Gulf. The skippers and crew of NZST are very experienced and skilled. They present their courses in a very safe professional manner enabling all on board to get the most from the experience.”

“The NZ Sailing Trust with their programme involves sailing “maxi ocean racing legends” with the associated life on board. This dynamic situation is a great experience for leadership development and the participants are exposed to strong interactive lessons on the environment, its power and importance to life.

The St Paul’s College leadership programme selects approximately 24 students from years 11 to 13 who demonstrate leadership qualities. After 3 years participating in the NZ Sailing Trust programme, we now have numerous stories of success directly attributed to the programme.

One story we will share is about Reuben Fruean. In 2017, as a year 11 student, Reuben, who is of Pacifica heritage joined the leadership group for 3 days sailing on Steinlager 2. He had never been on a boat, could not swim was afraid of the water and missed being away from home. At the end of the three days on Steinlager 2, Reuben was confidently swimming and enjoying the sailing.

In 2019 Reuben was included in the leadership group for another 3 days sailing, this time on Lion NZ. He was an outstanding leader for the young and less confident members of the crew. This year Reuben is Head Prefect at St Paul’s College- a role he excels in.”