Building a Better Future for Sussex and Surrey

The West Sussex & Surrey Angling Academy offers engaging and interactive educational programmes centred around the sport of angling. We focus on supporting young people and adults who are at risk of exclusion from education or society, providing them with a unique and enjoyable way to learn, grow, and connect with others.

Over 20 years supporting the community

At West Sussex & Surrey Angling Academy, we believe angling offers something for everyone, whether you’re seeking a safe, educational, or simply fun experience. Our programmes are thoughtfully designed to provide a balance of learning, enjoyment, and personal growth for participants of all ages and abilities. Here’s how we ensure every session is safe, enriching, and enjoyable:
Safety
At West Sussex & Surrey Angling Academy, safety is our top priority. Our expert coaches ensure that all participants, regardless of age or ability, are equipped with the knowledge and skills to fish responsibly. We maintain strict safety guidelines to create a secure, enjoyable experience for everyone involved.
  • All sessions are overseen by qualified and experienced instructors.
  • Safety equipment is provided, and all participants are briefed on proper use.
  • Our venues are carefully selected for their safe and accessible environments.
Educational
Angling is more than just a sport; it’s an opportunity for learning. At WSSAA, our courses are designed to provide hands-on educational experiences, blending outdoor activities with life skills development. Whether you're learning about the environment, honing problem-solving skills, or improving teamwork, our programmes offer valuable learning in every session.
  • Participants learn essential life skills such as patience, resilience, and communication.
  • Lessons incorporate subjects like maths, science, and environmental awareness.
  • Tailored programmes cater to all ages and learning abilities, ensuring a supportive and educational experience.
Healthy
At West Sussex & Surrey Angling Academy, we believe angling promotes not only mental and emotional wellbeing but also physical health. Our sessions encourage participants to enjoy the outdoors, engage in low-impact exercise, and experience the health benefits of spending time in nature.
  • Angling provides gentle physical activity, promoting movement and coordination.
  • Time spent outdoors helps reduce stress, improving overall mental health.
  • Exposure to fresh air and natural sunlight boosts vitamin D levels and enhances mood.
Fun
Fishing with WSSAA is a fun and rewarding experience for all. Our sessions are designed to be engaging, offering participants a chance to enjoy nature, build confidence, and develop new skills in a relaxed, enjoyable setting.
  • Participants of all ages have the chance to catch their first fish in a supportive environment.
  • Our courses offer a perfect mix of relaxation and excitement.
  • Whether in freshwater or by the sea, fishing provides a unique, memorable experience for everyone.

West Sussex & Surrey Angling Academy

At the West Sussex & Surrey Angling Academy, we use angling to transform lives through education, skill-building, and mental wellbeing. Our unique programmes cater to children, young people, adults, and families—especially those at risk of exclusion from education or society. We offer tailored, accredited courses that promote personal growth, confidence, and social development, with a focus on building life skills, teamwork, and resilience. Through the calming and therapeutic nature of angling, we help participants improve their health and wellbeing, reduce stress, and develop a strong sense of community. Whether it’s taster sessions, beginners’ courses, or specialised programmes for SEND, ex-offenders, and NHS workers, WSSAA is dedicated to fostering positive change for all who participate.

We offer a range of angling experiences, including taster sessions, beginners’ courses, and fishing days, tailored for children, young people, adults, the elderly, disabled individuals. We believe angling is a highly underutilised tool for learning and engagement, and we are dedicated to expanding the opportunities it provides to people of all ages.

Ages 7 and over

Angling offers people of all ages a peaceful and enjoyable way to connect with nature and each other, fostering lifelong skills.

Autism

The calming environment of angling helps individuals with autism build focus, confidence, and social interaction in a low-pressure setting.

ADHD

Angling’s blend of patience and action provides an outlet for energy while encouraging concentration and mindfulness in those with ADHD.

Dementia and Alzheimer's

Angling engages the senses and promotes memory stimulation, offering therapeutic benefits for those with dementia or Alzheimer’s.

Behavioural Issues

Angling teaches discipline, responsibility, and self-control, providing a positive, structured environment for personal development.

Schools

Angling introduces students to practical skills and teamwork, enhancing both their academic learning and social development in a hands-on setting.
West Sussex and Surrey Angling Academy - Working with Schools

Working with Schools

We partner with schools to deliver engaging outdoor education programmes, using angling to inspire students, build life skills, and support personal and academic development.
West Sussex and Surrey Angling Academy

Working with Care Providers

Our tailored angling sessions offer care providers a unique way to enhance the wellbeing and confidence of individuals, promoting relaxation and social interaction in a natural setting.

Providing Opportunities

We provide diverse opportunities for people of all ages and backgrounds to learn new skills, improve their mental and physical health, and become valued members of their community through the sport of angling.

Families Welcome

Families are more than welcome to visit us and see the Academy in action, providing a firsthand experience of our supportive and engaging environment before signing up a loved one.

Education. Experience

Our programmes combine practical education with hands-on experience, using angling as a powerful tool to teach valuable life skills and promote personal development.

West Sussex and Surrey Angling Academy - Providing Opportunities

Sea Fishsing

Enjoy the thrill of sea fishing in a safe and controlled environment, where our expert instructors prioritise safety at all times. Participants will learn essential fishing techniques while adhering to strict safety guidelines, ensuring a fun and secure experience by the coast.

Proud to be Supported By

Lottery Funded
British Airways
Surrey Police and Crime Commissioner
Comic Relief
Grassroots Trust

Local Partners

It’s not who you are, it’s what you can become

At our West Sussex and Surrey Angling Acedemy, we harness the power of angling to inspire and uplift individuals from all walks of life. Through this engaging sport, we offer participants the chance to grow both personally and socially by delivering practical life skills, meaningful projects, and vocational courses. Our programmes are designed to enhance Health & Wellbeing, Motivation, Confidence, and Self-Esteem.

You can Achieve when you Believe.

We offer a range of angling experiences, including taster sessions, beginners’ courses, and fishing days, tailored for children, young people, adults, the elderly, disabled individuals, NHS and frontline workers, and ex-offenders. We believe angling is a highly underutilised tool for learning and engagement, and we are dedicated to expanding the opportunities it provides to people of all ages.

Latest News from West Sussex and Surrey Angling Academy

Read the latest news and announcements from the academy
News

News Item 1

Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Vivamus lorem leo, consequat id sem blandit, maximus pellentesque sapien. Curabitur at ipsum pretium, tempor quam a, sollicitudin purus. Maecenas vel velit in lectus condimentum molestie non eget massa. Ut non eleifend est. Mauris imperdiet feugiat ipsum. Nulla fringilla placerat rutrum. Sed

Read More »
Announcement

News Item 2

Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Vivamus lorem leo, consequat id sem blandit, maximus pellentesque sapien. Curabitur at ipsum pretium, tempor quam a, sollicitudin purus. Maecenas vel velit in lectus condimentum molestie non eget massa. Ut non eleifend est. Mauris imperdiet feugiat ipsum. Nulla fringilla placerat rutrum. Sed

Read More »
News

News Item 3

Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Vivamus lorem leo, consequat id sem blandit, maximus pellentesque sapien. Curabitur at ipsum pretium, tempor quam a, sollicitudin purus. Maecenas vel velit in lectus condimentum molestie non eget massa. Ut non eleifend est. Mauris imperdiet feugiat ipsum. Nulla fringilla placerat rutrum. Sed

Read More »

Book a Taster Session or Contact Us

Ready to experience the benefits of angling firsthand? Book a taster session today and discover how our unique programmes can inspire, relax, and build confidence. Whether you’re new to fishing or looking for a fresh start, our team is here to help.

Interested in supporting the West Sussex & Surrey Angling Academy? Contact us to learn more about how you can get involved and make a real difference in your community. Every contribution helps us continue transforming lives through angling!