Dorset sailing specialist Rockley Watersports is already helping to build its legacy for 2012, by encouraging teachers to take part in windsurfing lessons. By inspiring teachers to take part in watersports they are hoping that in turn those teachers will inspire their students to take part.

The 12 for 2012 is an initiative set up by the Dorset Strategic Partnership, to ensure that everyone gets the most from having the Olympic sailing event in the South, including embracing increased interest in sport from children and adults alike.

Rockley Watersports always endeavour to 'get more people on the water' so the 12 for 2012 legacy fits in perfectly with their own established vision, but they are now stepping it up a gear to help drive forward the 2012 message.

One of the legacy objectives is to see an increased participation by people of all ages in sport, play and leisure activities. It also aims to see increased levels of health and a reduction in the level of obesity in all ages of Dorset's population through healthier, active lifestyles.

Rockley Watersports is already a great ambassador for all of these objectives, already teaching and coaching many schools across the country, but their latest initiative of teaching teachers aspires to encourage the passion for sports and sailing through as many channels as possible. By getting teachers excited and enjoying watersports they can in turn excite their pupils.

Eight teachers have taken part in the 'teach the teacher' sessions so far which have been taking place in Poole at Rockley Watersports' base at Poole Park.

Kate Tyson, a teacher from St Peters school in Bournemouth, who took part recently said: “Learning to windsurf was wonderful, I have never done anything like that on the water before, so have never really encouraged the children to take part in such activities as I didn't realise how much you can take from such an experience.

“It gave me such a sense of achievement afterwards, and we all really benefited from getting involved, pushing ourselves to learn something new and of course getting out in the fresh air and getting some exercise , getting going was so exhilarating. I will certainly be getting my class to come and have lessons as soon as possible, you never know they may be good enough to compete in the Olympics – now that would be an achievement!”

If you would like to take part in the 'teach the teacher' programme please find more details online at www.rockleywatersports.co.uk. For details about the 12 for 2012 initiative visit www.weymouth.gov.uk and click on 2012.