Sailing & watersports transforms lives
At the Andrew Simpson Foundation, we believe in the transformational power that sailing and watersports can provide. Whether it’s building confidence, developing skills for work, or creating lasting connections in local communities, our programmes are about more than just sport, they’re about long lasting impact.
Through our national network of centres, delivery partners, and community collaborators, we work across four key pillars of change. Here’s how we’re making a difference.
2033 targets
We continue to seek further opportunities to grow and expand our charitable impact and we aim to support over 60,000 individuals each year across the UK to access the personal and community benefits that participation in sailing and watersports bring.
Provide more access and reach more communities
By expanding our national footprint, establishing new centres across the UK, creating more opportunities for young people and communities to experience the water, many for the first time
Remove barriers to participation
By building strong partnerships and delivering innovative outreach programmes that actively remove barriers, particularly in underserved and inland communities where participation is lowest
Increase diversity in
sailing & watersports
By ensuring our delivery reflects the diversity of the UK and prioritises inclusion, wellbeing, and long-term progression in everything we do.
Community impact
From exclusion to empowerment as sailing helps a young person reconnect and grow
Alfie started coming on the PSTT Programme with Milton Cross Academy in September 2018. Alfie was in the Victory Suite – an inclusion unit within the school for young people who are unable to cope with being in the classroom full time.
‘Thrilling Adventure’ for Reading School pupils harnesses adaptability
Opening up new possibilities through sailing. At our Andrew Simpson Centre in Reading, children from English Martyrs Catholic Primary School are taking to the water through our Aiming High Community Sailing Programme.
Hands-on training inspired young sailor to take on a new career path
Lewis first joined the STT (Sail Training Trust) programme at a time when traditional classroom learning wasn’t clicking.
Latest updates
Champions Meet Change: A SailGP evening from the Spinnaker Tower
To mark the SailGP event taking place in Portsmouth, we were proud to host a fantastic evening a top the Spinnaker Tower, where we welcomed an array of partners, supporters, guests and elite sailors celebrating the theme of ‘Champions Meet Change’.
Swim Free launches in ninth UK Location with New Lessons and Rookie Lifeguarding Courses Announced
The Swim Free programme has just announced the launch of a new centre and courses for the 2025/26 academic year.
Introducing our new Chief Operations Officer: Rob Clark
Building upon his vast experience, most recently as Director of Sport Development at the RYA, Rob will provide strategic oversight of operations across the Andrew Simpson Foundation, Andrew Simpson Centres, Horizons and Sail Training Trust.
