A new community-led initiative launching this spring is giving young people in Thanet and East Kent the opportunity to take part in kitesurfing, with lessons and equipment funded as part of a pilot programme.
The Wind Futures programme has been developed by East Kent Kitesurfing Community (EKKC) to support young people aged 16–21 who would not normally be able to access the sport due to cost.
Applications are now open, with the programme expected to begin later this year following a structured selection process.
Wind Futures has been designed to remove financial barriers to kitesurfing, a sport that is widely recognised for its physical and mental health benefits but can be difficult to access due to the cost of lessons and equipment.
The pilot programme will provide fully funded kitesurfing lessons, alongside access to equipment during sessions, giving participants a supported introduction to the sport. Lessons will be conducted by Thanet’s Kite Pirates Kitesurfing School.
The initiative is being delivered with funding from Vattenfall, enabling both the lessons and the provision of a dedicated kite for participants to use throughout the programme.
Additional support has been provided by King of Watersports, assisting with the design and production of the programme kite.
The programme is open to young people aged 16–18, with flexibility to include applicants up to 21 years old where appropriate.
Organisers are encouraging applications from those who are motivated to take part but would not typically be able to afford access to kitesurfing.
Applications are expected to remain open until the end of April or mid-May, depending on demand.
Selection Process
Due to limited places, Wind Futures will follow a staged selection process:
- Application: Interested applicants complete an online form
- Shortlisting: Candidates are reviewed based on need, motivation and commitment
- Taster Session: Shortlisted applicants are invited to attend a group session
- Final Selection: Participants are chosen following the taster session by instructors
Organisers say this approach ensures places are awarded fairly and to those most likely to benefit from the programme.
Chris Joy, Trustee of East Kent Kitesurfing Community, said: “East Kent and Thanet offer some of the best conditions for kitesurfing in the UK. It’s an incredible sport that not only challenges you physically, but can completely change your confidence and outlook.
“We want to open that opportunity up to young people locally and help grow the sport within the community. This pilot is about more than just lessons. we’re already looking at how we can support continued participation beyond the programme, including access to equipment in the future.
“We’re really grateful to Vattenfall for investing in our community, in the sport, and in young people across East Kent. We’re hoping to see strong interest so we can build on this and expand the programme further.”
How to Apply
Young people interested in applying, or those wishing to refer someone, can do so via the online application form: https://ekkc.org/wind-futures-programme/
Nice one Kite Pirates!!
Kites aren’t just for youngsters. Recently, I was walking along Seasalter seafront, and there were dozens of Asian men flying kites, at really spectacular heights. A reall treat to witness.