Students learn life on the ocean wave

The 10 boys, who all attend the SPACE centre in Kirkby, enjoyed the adventure of a lifetime as they sailed a 40-foot challenger yacht from Portsmouth to Eastbourne, Brighton and the Isle of Wight.

While on board the teenagers were trained to be full crew members, learning how to hoist the sails and winch the lines as well as clean the toilets and cook dinner.

They also had to cope with some large waves crashing against the yacht.

James Allbright, SPACE Centre co-ordinator, said: “The group did amazingly well considering they had to live in very close quarters with each other, away from their families and were worked hard on a daily basis both physically and mentally.

“They had to come together as a team, despite their differences, to make the boat work and this allowed them to really develop social, emotional, leadership and life skills as a result.”

The trip was organised by the Tall Ships Youth Trust and the boat’s captain and team accompanied the youngsters on their voyage, teaching them how to sail.

Gavin Barker from the YMCA also helped supervise the trip, along with co-ordinator James.

James added: “I am very proud of all the students involved and they should be proud of themselves.

“I am sure this is an experience they will carry with them for the rest of life and one which will stand them in good stead in the future, no matter what is thrown at them.”

SPACE (the School Partnership, Alternative Centre for Education) is based on Forest Street in Kirkby and has involvement from all four secondary schools in Sutton and Kirkby.

It aims to re-engage youngsters in the education system by organising practical and vocational activities for them.