A major new programme designed to transform opportunities for young people across the Thames Valley has launched, as Active Row Thames Valley takes to the water.
Delivered by London Youth Rowing (LYR) and supported by Thames Water, the new initiative will expand access to rowing, physical activity and youth development opportunities across the region, with a strong focus on reaching young people who may not otherwise have access to sport.
The launch of Active Row Thames Valley, a programme that commenced earlier this year, was marked by an event hosted at Reading Rowing Club on Wednesday 19 August, hosted by LYR and supported by Thames Water. The launch event brought together students from local schools already engaged in the newly established programme, for a summer holiday open day.
Students in attendance came from schools that are now engaged with Active Row Thames Valley, including Forest School, MES Reading, Hartland High and Cranbury College for a day of activity on and off the River Thames.
Active Row Thames Valley represents the next phase of a delivery-led partnership between LYR and Thames Water, first announced in March 2026, focused on creating meaningful, long-term opportunities for young people both in schools and on the water.
The programme introduces a structured pathway for young people to take part in rowing, while supporting wider personal development, helping participants to build confidence, improve wellbeing and develop the skills they need for life beyond school.
At its core is LYR’s promise to every young person: Be Curious. Be Brave. Be Yourself. This ethos is embedded throughout Active Row Thames Valley, from first experiences on the water, to ongoing engagement in schools and local communities.
Matt Rostron, CEO of London Youth Rowing, said: “This partnership is about more than just getting young people on the water for the first time, it’s about opening up new possibilities. Active Row Thames Valley is designed to give young people the confidence, resilience and sense of belonging they need to thrive. Through this partnership with Thames Water, we are able to reach more communities and deliver real, lasting impact where it matters most.”
The partnership goes beyond traditional sponsorship, with Thames Water playing an active role in delivery on the ground. At the launch event, a team of Thames Water volunteers worked alongside LYR coaches to support activities and engage directly with young people, helping to create a positive, inclusive environment while sharing knowledge about the river and its importance to local communities.
Paul Hampton, Healthy Rivers Community Manager at Thames Water, added: “We are incredibly proud to see Active Row Thames Valley come to life. This is a partnership built on action, not just words, creating opportunities for young people to connect with their local rivers, build new skills and discover what they are capable of. By working alongside LYR, we are investing in the future of the communities we serve.”
Over time, the ongoing partnership between the two organisations will also open up opportunities for young people to build stronger connections with their local waterways, develop awareness of environmental stewardship and with the support of a major employer such as Thames Water, explore future pathways into education and employment.
Active Row Thames Valley is designed to deliver sustained impact across the region, working with schools and community partners to reach more young people year-on-year. The support from Thames Water has already enabled LYR to establish the programme in the area, hiring a full-time coach to deliver the programme locally, and establishing relationships with local schools.
Current schools signed up to Active Row Thames Valley are Cranbury College, Maiden Erlegh School – Earley, River Academy, Maiden Erlegh School – Reading, Hartland High School & 6th Form, The Wren and Forest School.
The programme builds on LYR’s established Active Row model, which has already demonstrated significant impact in improving physical activity levels, wellbeing and confidence among participants.
With thanks to New Reach/London Youth Rowing
