October 23, 2026
Harrison Foundation renews support for Antigua’s National Sailing Academy
The Harrison Foundation is continuing its support for the National Sailing Academy in Antigua and Barbuda, following a successful first year that saw 21 students from the nearby Harrison Centre for Social Mobility take to the water, develop new skills and explore career opportunities in the island’s growing marine industry.
The Foundation first supported the Academy in 2025, funding a new sailing programme for young people studying at the Harrison Centre for Social Mobility. Following the progress made and growing demand from students, we are delighted to have agreed a further US$13,500 of funding to continue the programme during 2026/27.
Based in English Harbour, the National Sailing Academy has traditionally provided sailing instruction for children aged eight to 16. Our support has helped extend these opportunities to older students attending the Harrison Centre, complementing their vocational education with practical sailing experience and an introduction to potential careers in the marine sector.
During the first year, 21 Harrison Centre students participated in the programme, including those in both the first and second years of their courses. The students showed considerable enthusiasm and determination, with almost every participant progressing to the point where they could sail a dinghy independently.
This was a significant achievement, demonstrating the confidence, independence and practical skills the students developed through the programme.
The benefits also extended beyond the water. Students attended the Academy’s Marine Expo, where they met businesses operating in the sector and learned about employment opportunities and career pathways.
Some students who completed their Harrison Centre courses in 2026 have since secured jobs with local marine businesses, including Antigua Slipway, Woodstock Boatbuilders and Dive Carib. Others have returned to the Academy this academic year, keen to build on their progress and develop their sailing and seamanship skills further.
The programme also helps students recognise how the vocational skills they are developing at the Harrison Centre for Social Mobility can open doors to careers in Antigua’s expanding marine industry. Trades such as electrical work, electronics, plumbing and carpentry are all in demand within the sector, offering valuable opportunities for future employment.
Following a presentation at the Harrison Centre ahead of the 2026/27 academic year, 49 students signed up for sailing lessons.
The Academy is planning another Marine Expo in 2027, helping more young people discover the range of careers available within the industry.
Sir David Harrison, Founder of the Harrison Foundation, said:
“I’m delighted that we are continuing our support for the National Sailing Academy. One of the main reasons I was keen to support this initiative was the opportunity to connect students at the Harrison Centre with local businesses and open their eyes to the careers available on their doorstep. The marine industry is an important part of Antigua’s economy, and many of the practical skills our students are learning are directly relevant to it. It’s particularly encouraging to see students already moving into employment in the sector, and I hope many more will follow.”
By helping young people build confidence, develop new skills and discover potential career pathways, the programme reflects our commitment to creating opportunities that can make a lasting difference.
We look forward to seeing more students benefit as the partnership enters its second year.