Sir Ben Ainslie returned to Portsmouth last week to inspire hundreds of young people during the 1851 Trust's STEM Crew Live programme ahead of the Emirates Great Britain Sail Grand Prix. Held from 29 June to 2 July, the initiative engaged 656 students from four schools across Portsmouth and the Isle of Wight in hands-on science, technology, engineering and maths (STEM) activities linked to sailing.
More than 200 students also experienced sailing aboard RS Venture dinghies at the Andrew Simpson Centre, discovering how STEM principles underpin performance on the water.
Founded by Ainslie, the 1851 Trust uses sailing to encourage young people to explore careers in science, engineering and technology through practical learning.
STEM Afloat: Sir Ben Ainslie discusses sailing, teamwork and STEM principles with students aboard an RS Venture during the 1851 Trust's STEM Crew Live programme, giving many their first experience afloat. Photo: J Green
Reflecting on his own experience, Ainslie said he had not found STEM subjects easy at school. "What I didn't realise was that every time I stepped onto a boat, I was using maths and science in everything I did," he said. "Once I saw science in action and how it worked beyond the textbook, I understood it. That's why we set up the 1851 Trust."
He added that giving young people opportunities on the water was central to the Trust's mission. "You can't become what you can't imagine, and we want every young person to have the chance to step into the world behind the sport, discover that science is already theirs and realise what they're capable of."
For many participants, it was their first experience afloat despite living on England's south coast.
Emily Johnson of St Edmund's Catholic School said programmes such as STEM Crew Live helped pupils recognise opportunities that might otherwise seem beyond their reach. "It shows them what is out there and brings it to life," she said. "There is so much talent sitting in classrooms not fulfilling its full potential because they haven't yet discovered their passion."
The 1851 Trust said the programme focuses particularly on schools serving communities where such opportunities are limited. RS Sailing, whose award-winning RS Venture dinghies were used throughout the event, said it was proud to support the initiative.
Managing Director Alex Newton-Southon said: "It's super inspiring to see these young people discover the connection between sailing and future careers. Initiatives such as STEM Crew Live help build curiosity, confidence and opportunities both on and off the water."
