Peterborough youngster off to Isle of Wight for UK Sailing Academy adventure

A 10-year-old boy from Peterborough, who faces the challenges of ADHD, has been granted a unique opportunity to train with the esteemed UK Sailing Academy (UKSA) on the scenic Isle of Wight.

James B. Rayment, who is homeschooled, has demonstrated remarkable progress through personalised one-to-one learning and activities, leading to this invitation to participate in a specialised course at UKSA.

Both pictures: 10-year-old James Rayment and his veteran mentor and friend James Hopgood of Peterborough Sailability

James’ dynamic and adventurous learning curriculum has included engaging in sailing sessions provided by Peterborough Sailability, a local organisation dedicated to making sailing accessible to all. Through these sessions, James has not only embraced the sport but is also rapidly advancing through the RYA’s Sailability and Powerability syllabus.

Commenting on James’s journey, his mentor James Hopgood, co-founder of Peterborough Sailability, expressed his delight, he said:

“It’s great to have James Junior with us and to see such a young man progress at the speed he is, is wonderful. The trip to UKSA will provide him with some great experiences. We certainly need more talented youngsters like James coming through the ranks.”

The shore men are pictured bringing James back to land after a recent training exercise. — The shore people are pictured bringing James back to land after a recent training exercise.

UKSA, renowned worldwide for its comprehensive sailing programs and exceptional facilities, is eagerly awaiting James’ arrival.

A spokesperson for the UKSA said:

“We are looking forward to welcoming James to UKSA. It is always heartening to work with young individuals who exhibit enthusiasm and resilience. This experience will undoubtedly help shape James’ future in sailing and provide him with some valuable skills and experiences.”

James’ visit to UKSA not only signifies a remarkable achievement for the young man but also highlights the power of a tailored education for individuals with ADHD. Homeschooling and its personalised approach has played a significant role in James’ rapid progress and success, enabling him to thrive academically and pursue his passion for sailing.

James, aged 10, is pictured receiving his first Entry-Level sailing certification earlier this year. He has since completed the subsequent Bronze award, and is now working on his Silver-level. — James, aged 10, is pictured receiving his first Entry-Level sailing certification earlier this year. He has since completed the subsequent Bronze award and is now already working on his Silver certification.

Lee B. Rayment, James’ father, proudly shared his thoughts on James’ journey. He emphasised how the combination of one-to-one academic learning, participation in Scouts, Karate, and various water-based activities, including sailing and swimming, is nurturing James’ confidence and growth. He said:

“The unwavering support from family, his mentors, and the sailing community is instrumental in nurturing James’ confidence. This kind of opportunity with UKSA not only symbolises the inclusivity of the sailing community but also serves as an inspiration to others facing similar challenges.

“Through his journey, with sailing, karate, scouts and other activities, I’m continually reminded that education should not be a one-cap-fits-all process. I’m just pleased my wife and I, identified this and were willing to make it work. With the right nurturing and support around you, we can all overcome obstacles and achieve great things.”

James himself said: “I’m excited and nervous at the same time. But yes, I can’t wait!”

#morethansailing

August 02, 2023
by admin
Comments are off