Please tell us a bit about yourself
I’m a full-time Sailing Instructor, having decided about six years ago that it was going to be more fun than working in an office.
So far, that’s worked out to be true! I love working for TSYT and when I’m not doing that, I teach the Royal Yachting Association’s syllabus as a Yachtmaster Instructor. I still think the old line is true “A bad day on the water is better than a great day anywhere else.”
Please tell us a bit about your role at Tall Ships Youth Trust
As a Skipper with TSYT, I lead the onboard team that helps young people have great experiences. This means planning the trip and adjusting plans to suit each voyage crew, a little bit of admin, and a lot of teaching and mentoring. And making sure it’s all fun.
People think that a Skipper steers the boat all the time … on the best trips I barely touch the wheel, only taking control for the all-important parking!
What has been your most memorable moment at Tall Ships Youth Trust?
Memorable moments happen all the time. The best bits normally happen about two thirds of the way into a trip when everyone relaxes and maybe you find out that the person who started out nervous and quiet is suddenly ready to take charge of some exercises on deck… those moments are always great.
What is one thing you think people should know about Tall Ships Youth Trust?
Boats are a great leveller. If you come to the sea overconfident, you’ll find out that you can only achieve with help from others. But, if you come to it uncertain of yourself, you’ll find you can do far more than you thought.
Please describe your job in three words
Challenging
Safe
Enjoyable
If you were famous, what would you be famous for?
My fabled ability to resist biscuits, however tempting. It’s quite safe to offer to share your triple chocolate cookies with me, I can definitely resist those, oh yes :).
