Schools Rowing
At Fulham Reach Boat Club (FRBC), we believe rowing has the power to transform lives. Our Schools Rowing Programme introduces young people—many of whom wouldn’t otherwise have access—to the physical, mental, and social benefits of this unique sport. Set on the River Thames in the heart of London, we offer a safe and inclusive gateway to the blue space, helping young people thrive in one of the most urbanised areas of the UK.
Rowing at FRBC is more than just a sport. Our 6-week school learn-to-row programmes teaches teamwork, leadership, confidence, and resilience. Time on the water also nurtures a connection to nature, provides a welcome break from the classroom, and supports the development of patience, focus, and creativity. We work with local state schools, many located in areas of significant deprivation, to offer free or low-cost sessions that break down barriers to participation.
Our Impact in 2023/24:
- 1,101 students from 11 state schools took part in 574 rowing sessions—a 42% increase from the previous year.
- 70% of our schools are in areas with high deprivation.
- 78% of participants identified as female, and 77.5% of our Free Water Sport Week attendees were from ethnically diverse backgrounds.
- We recently welcomed alternative provision school Westside School and state school Holland Park into our programme.
- In 2024 we launched the inaugural Youth Boat Race in partnership with The Boat Race, which hosted 4 crews of 6 local schools. By 2025 the event has doubled in size hosting 8 crews and 10 local schools.
Through rowing, we create a platform for young people in years 9 - 13 to be active, engaged, and empowered—both in and out of the boat. Whether it’s a taster session, a school programme, or progression into our Junior Squad, FRBC opens up a world of opportunity on the river.
“Rowing for our students this year has had a great effect. It allows me to engage with students who can otherwise be disengaged in the classroom and build positive relationships with them.” — School Teacher
We’re proud to champion rowing as a tool for inclusion, wellbeing, and personal growth—and we’re excited to keep growing this impact year on year.
If you would like your school to join in with rowing at FRBC please get in touch with [email protected].
State school sessions are subsidised to enhance participation, we also cater for a wide range of SEND needs, so don’t hesitate to get in touch.