A group of 36 students took part in a learning programme to mark Autism Acceptance Month in April.

The children, from six public schools across the island, tackled conventional subjects by getting out of the classroom and on to the water.

The programme, run by the Endeavour charity, teaches students on the autism spectrum seafaring skills as recreational therapy.

Rajae Woods, Endeavour’s programme co-ordinator, said: “During the programme, students engage in Steam [Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Maths] activities through sailing, including buoyancy and engineering challenges, as well as exploring Bermuda from the water and marine debris clean ups.

“We love seeing students' self-esteem grow as they develop skills including communication, peer-to-peer interaction and socio-emotional skills by engaging in hands-on learning activities.

“It was fantastic to see students engaged in learning more about the process of kite-making — a big part of Bermuda’s culture — while exploring wind and the power of the wind for flying kites and sailing.”

A spokeswoman for the charity said that children with autism struggle to recognise and regulate emotions, which makes social awareness and responsible decision-making difficult. Social emotional learning can help children with autism to develop an awareness of emotions and build social relationships.

The spokeswoman said: “Parents and teachers of children who participate in the programme report that it helps equip students with life skills such as increased confidence, enhanced communication and increased ability to adapt to a new environment.”

Endeavour’s executive director, Jennifer Pitcher, said: “There are no limits for what students with autism and other intellectual disabilities can achieve when they are in a supportive and inclusive learning environment.

“We are grateful for the tremendous support from our educator partners who help ensure that the BF&M No Limits sailing programme can take place.

“This programme also provides a development opportunity for Endeavour’s instructors, who advance their skill set by learning to teach in different ways, partnering with teachers to support their students’ learning journey.

“Endeavour’s work with Bermuda’s youth would not be possible without the amazing support from our valued donors, partners and supporters who enable us to create a positive impact in diverse young lives across Bermuda.

“Special thanks to BF&M and Endeavour’s founding lead sponsor, Orbis Investments, for their unwavering commitment and support of Endeavour and our work with Bermuda’s youth.”

To learn more about Endeavour’s experiential learning programmes, click here.