Fifth edition of Learn Through Surfing kicks off!

“Over 500 students in Menorca will continue learning about our marine environments through surfing.”

For the fifth consecutive season, schoolchildren in Menorca will take part in the Learn Through Surfing project, through which they will learn to build better relationships with themselves, with their peers, and with the natural environment.

This programme is developed by the non-profit environmental association Surf and Clean, with the support of the Spanish Surfing Federation and in collaboration with local organisations Paddle Tour Menorca and Surf & Sail Menorca. The project is made possible in Menorca thanks to the combined support of the Consell Insular and Menorca Preservation, and also benefits from the backing of Ecovidrio and MSC Sustainable Fishing. This year, it will reach more than 500 pupils from 11 educational centres across Maó, Alaior, Ferreries, and Ciutadella.

Harnessing the potential of surfing, not merely as a sport but as a broader culture, the programme works with pupils on a wide range of cross-cutting themes such as cooperation, equality, inclusion, ecology, prevention, and group identity — prioritising collaboration over competition.

“The vision of surfing as a way of connecting with the sea — expansive, indigenous, and ancestral — offers us a way of practising it that is far removed from competitiveness, and instead closer to values such as enjoyment, caring for others, and fostering a deep connection with the natural environment. By tracing its roots to other names, places, and times, such as He’enalu (Hawai’i), Saran (West Africa), or Nong chao er (弄潮儿) (China), we find inspiration for creating days that surprise and offer a different perspective,”says dAvid Blanco, national coordinator of the initiative.

The project has been very well received since its beginnings by both pupils and teaching staff on the island. In addition, for the second year running, students from the vocational training course “Guiding in the Natural Environment and Outdoor Activities” at IES Cap de Llevant will also take part as part of their practical training.