Imagine a classroom where the blackboard is replaced by the expansive, blue ocean and the sound of chalk is traded for the splash of waves against a sailboat’s hull.
In the heart of the remarkable STEAM education programme, known as Endeavour, organisers are turning this vision into a reality, transforming young lives and nurturing the next wave of maritime leaders.
SAILING TOWARDS EMPOWERMENT
Engagement, empowerment and the sea – these are the pillars upon which the Bermuda-based charity and nonprofit organisation, Endeavour, stands.
Explaining that Endeavour is founded on the belief that sailing transcends beyond sport and serves as a teaching platform, executive director Jennifer Pitcher said: “Endeavour creates opportunities for personal and professional growth and exposes Bermuda’s youth to the world of sailing and marine activities, inspiring future maritime career pathways.”
By partnering with schools, educators and organisations across the island, Endeavour is deeply rooted in the community, leveraging Bermuda’s stunning coastlines and ocean into an immersive education and sailing experience.
A VOYAGE OF LEARNING AND DISCOVERY
Endeavour’s flagship initiative, the STEAM Education through Sailing Programme, engages students aged 11 to 12 from all schools to embark on a five-day sailing odyssey rich with hands-on STEAM-based learning.
“Students learn about sailing geometry, buoyancy, wind measurement, and much more,” Mrs Pitcher said.
“It connects what they learn in the classroom with real-life experiences on the water.”
For older and more sea-hardened students, the Endeavour Graduate Programme polishes their sailing skills and introduces them to the Royal Yachting Association Youth Sailing Scheme. This dedication to skill and personal development culminates in the Assistant Instructor Programme, which provides high school students with a platform for leadership and coaching expertise.
MAKING A SPLASH IN MARITIME CAREERS
The Endeavour Maritime Career Springboard Programme taps into a reservoir of potential, equipping young Bermudians aged 16 and older with hands-on maritime training, internationally recognised qualifications and career connections with industry professionals.
NAVIGATING LIFE’S WATERS WITH CONFIDENCE
The fruits of Endeavour’s programmes are evident in the smiles and stories of participants who have hoisted their sails under its tutelage.
Ruth Mello-Cann’s journey from a budding sailor to an environmental science and sustainability university student, and intern with the Switzerland SailGP team, embodies Endeavour’s transformative power.
“Staying connected with Endeavour has opened up so many doors for me and broadened my experience in the maritime industry,” she said.
Former Berkeley Institute graduate Elijah Samuels’ passage through the STEAM and Maritime Career Springboard Programmes set him on a nautical path to the Warsash Maritime Academy, England, where he is now studying to be an Officer of the Watch.
He was thankful for opportunities and experiences provided through Endeavour “that laid the foundation for my future”.
From steering sailboats as a youngster through Endeavour’s Graduate Programme to teaching as a full-time Endeavour instructor, Nijanae Pemberton’s story bears testament to the resilience and revelation that Endeavour fosters.
“It is really rewarding to see the progress of youth sailors. For many students it is their first time sailing, and it is awesome to watch them build their confidence and skills on and off the water,” reflected Ms Pemberton.
J’Kai Berkeley’s ascent from the Endeavour’s Assistant Instructor Programme to the captivating world of seamanship at the Chapman School of Seamanship and his current pursuit of Marine Technology at the New England Institute of Technology.
Mr Berkeley said: “If you enjoy being on the ocean and you want to be involved in the maritime industry, the Endeavour Maritime Springboard Programme is the perfect start for your career.”
CHARTING THE COURSE AHEAD
As Endeavour celebrates its tenth anniversary this year, Mrs Pitcher said new initiatives and partnerships on the horizon promise an even brighter future.
She said Endeavour remains firmly committed to its goal of empowering Bermuda’s youth to embrace STEAM education, develop maritime and life skills and become innovative changemakers.
Mrs Pitcher added: “Endeavour’s work would not be possible without the collective support from all our valued donors, partners and supporters. We are grateful for Endeavour’s longstanding partnership with lead founding partner Orbis Investments.
“Together, with their generous support, we are making a lasting impact on young lives across our island.”
Here’s to the next ten years of tides, triumphs, and transformative education. Sail on, Endeavour. Sail on.
