Childrens Sailing Trust

Children's Sailing Trust are the charity that creates accessible and affordable watersports and sailing opportunities for young people in Cornwall!

The Children’s Sailing Trust has taught over 5000 children to sail since its foundation in 1997. They began teaching sessions for children with special educational needs and disabilities ten years later, but always wanted to do more. And in late 2021 one of their dreams came true with the opening of their converted quarry in Garras, near Helston.

CST's new accessible watersports centre at Trevassack Lake features adapted facilities and craft along with accessible accommodation, and allows them to provide hugely important inclusive sailing lessons and specialist classes to children with special needs and disabilities from across Cornwall and the UK.

Children’s Sailing Trust supports children through their schools or home education groups, helping them grow in confidence, competence and resilience – personal skills that last a lifetime. Sailing and water activities are excellent forms of exercise and can have a positive impact on both physical and mental health.

Physically, sailing and paddlesports can help strengthen core muscles and improve balance, coordination, and flexibility while improving cardiovascular fitness. Just as important is mental well-being and the freedom of getting out on the water provides an escape, reducing levels of stress and anxiety.

Learning new skills and achieving personal goals can help to build self–esteem and self–confidence, life skills that carry over into other areas of life and can have a positive impact on overall well-being and attitude.

CST also run commercial courses and sessions for groups, individuals and families on the Helford River and at Trevassack Lake, called CST Experiences. With every swim, sail and SUP session you purchase, you’ll be helping Children’s Sailing Trust’s work to create opportunities for kids to get out on the water who wouldn’t otherwise get the chance.