SPLASH SCHOOLS SURF PROJECT
Hundreds of island schoolchildren are benefiting from surfing sessions as part of an expanded initiative that hopes to encourage healthy lifestyles, water safety and positive self-esteem.
The active, outdoor lessons hosted by Splash Surf Centre follow the success of a pilot scheme with Rouge Boullion school last year.
The project, which has been extended to include Year 5 pupils from six central town schools, has been made possible through funding provided by Dominion Fiduciary and the One Foundation.
Over two hundred and twenty students are benefiting from four weekly sessions of surfing during this school term.
The schools participating in the 2025 programme are Rouge Boullion, Springfield, St Luke’s, Janvrin, Samarès and Plat Douet.
Benefits beyond surf skills
Fabien Amy, Operations Manager at the Splash Surf Centre, explained that the benefits extend far beyond surfing skills, with the initiative designed to promote physical activity, ocean awareness and increased confidence.
“There is also a whole scope of research about blue therapy, the benefit of being outdoors and by the sea,” he told Express.
“The difference with the children, even week on week, is extraordinary,” he added.
“It’s definitely the most rewarding element of the business we’ve ever had.”
Mr Amy reiterated that the programme “wouldn’t be possible” without the support of Dominion Fiduciary and the One Foundation.
“Breaking down barriers”
“It’s a unique opportunity [for the children] and something we feel should be, arguably, part of the curriculum over here.”
Founder of the One Foundation and Chairman at Dominion, Ben Cooke, said: “This project links to the very core of our One Foundation principles of supporting grassroots projects, which deliver benefits directly to the Jersey community.”
He continued: “In this instance, we are breaking down barriers to help the younger islanders across a range of town schools access an activity, which we have no doubt is a unique opportunity for so many of them.”
Mr Cooke noted that the sea provided opportunities to embrace both physical and mental benefits.
“We want these pupils to embrace these lessons and build a real connection with our natural surroundings,” he added.
“At the same time, this project promotes a sense of achievement and resilience as students learn and improve over the four-week course.
“Besides, it’s a real chance for them to have some outdoor fun with their school friends.”
