In an innovative initiative aimed at combining learning and fun, the students of the two CM1-CM2 classes at the Cardaillac school had the unique opportunity to discover the world of sailing on the Pont-de-Salars lake. Enough to breathe new life into learning.
Educational and fun initiative
The initiative, launched this year, aims to raise children’s awareness of water sports while instilling in them essential values such as cooperation, perseverance, concentration, mutual aid and respect for the environment. During three Thursdays in May and June, they were able to benefit from theoretical and practical support provided by the certified instructor from the lake’s nautical base. Sailing, a complete sport that requires both physical and mental skills, offers students the opportunity to develop new skills while having fun. They started by learning the theoretical bases (specific vocabulary, safety, navigation principles, etc.) then moved on to practice on “Optimists”, small sailboats perfectly suited to learning.
Multiple benefits
The students were divided into three per boat, each with a different and complementary role to navigate. In turn, they felt and defined the direction of the wind, oriented the sail, pulled or pushed the rudder, paddled when the wind did not swell the sail enough… While sailing, the children also learned to make decisions quickly, to adapt to changing conditions and work closely with their peers. “At first I was a little scared, but now I feel much more confident. I love feeling the wind in the sails and steering the boat with my friends. It’s really fun and it’s a change from the usual classes.” said one of them.
This project also aims to raise awareness among young people about environmental protection. Thus, the preservation of the lake and its surroundings could be addressed. Throughout the three Thursdays, everyone was able to discover and appreciate the progress made by the students. By thinking outside the box, education can be innovative and dynamic. Cardaillac students are now ready to cast off towards new horizons, more confident and better prepared to face the challenges of tomorrow.
