The first-of-its-kind event received very positive feedback and praise and was deemed a success with an increased number of schools signing up for the 2017 Primary and Secondary School events.
For two gorgeous, summery days Poole Park lake was a hive of activity with school students getting on the water with sailing and watersports taster sessions, followed by an afternoon of team kayak racing.
Rockley Poole Park Manager, AJ commented: “We are really pleased to be working with Active Dorset again on the Can Do Festival. The success of last year’s event has meant that many more schools have come forward wanting to take part.”
For four consecutive years Rockley Watersports and Active Dorset have collaborated to provide hundreds of Dorset school children the opportunity to get on the water and compete to represent their school. With the introduction of the ‘Can Do’ Festival the opportunity to get on the water and try sailing and watersports spreads its reach to all schools and helps in the joint aim to increases watersports participation.
Can Do Festival Results:
Primary Day
1. Stourfield Junior School
2. Lytchett Matravers Primary
3. Bearwood Primary School
Secondary Day
1. Sir John Colfox, Academy
2. Queen Elizabeth’s Upper School
3. Carter Community School
What did the teachers think?
Andrew Darch, Kings Park Academy - Very first event, brought eight students
"This has been a fantastic day. the children have gained so much confidence and they are taking on new challenges with great excitement and not fear. They've been kayaking, falling in the water and have absolutely loved it. I would recommend this event to anybody - it's a fantastic opportunity and anyone should take it up."
Lizzie Sharpe, Bishop Aldhelm's Primary School - very first event, brought eight students
"The children are absolutely loving it. It's the best thing we've done with them. Some of them have never been on the water before and it's amazing to see them having so much fun. The staff have been supportive, encouraging and brilliant - I cannot sing Rockley's praises enough, we'll definitely be here again next year."
Commenting on the BTEC students helping on the day:" It's lovely how you have involved the BTEC students. They've been great and the kids really look up to them."
Max Thurlow, Longfleet Primary - very first event, brought eight students
"The children are having an amazing time. They've really embraced every activity with a smile on their faces. It's a great opportunity for them to get out of the classroom enjoying some amazing activities together whilst having fun at the same time"
Thank you to all of the students for taking part and especially to the parents, teachers and schools for their support. We look forward to seeing you all on the water next year!
