SCHOOL pupils learnt skills for life when they took part in a sailing expedition.

Youngsters from IPACA and Wey Valley joined six pupils from London's Archbishop Tenison School on the voyage aboard the TS Pelican.

The experience was made possible by the Chesil Sailing Trust, a local charity who sponsored the trip to enable young people to benefit from Pelican’s sail training programme.

These pupils underwent the Pelican treatment, giving them invaluable skills for personal and professional development.

Once all 26 trainee crew members were on board the crew gave a brief of the voyage plan and what to expect, then the gangway was lifted, mooring lines were released, and the Pelican set sail.

Despite trainees being from different schools and different backgrounds, the newly assembled crew realised that they were a team now and must act like one. Trainees set aside any inter-school rivalry and competition and worked together to keep the great ship gliding through the sea.

Brandon Ridgeway from Adventure Under Sail, the charity which operates the ship, said: “Trainees were mixed to take part in watches together, meaning they had the chance to meet new people and build friendships that may even last long after the voyage.

“They had plenty to do when they were up at four in the morning on watch which helped them to gel really well.”

Pelican’s destination was Swanage Bay on Dorset’s beautiful Jurassic Coastline. Fortunately the weather was favourable with clear skies and no rain meaning spirits remained high.

Brandon added: “Throughout their time on board the trainees managed and maintained the ship and even climbed the rigging. The performed several up-and-overs, which is climbing up the rigging of the ship and onto the yard arms to adjust and stow sails.

“They also had the opportunity to assist the ship’s cook at washing up and setting the tables - they all got stuck in.”

Pelican has a number of youth and adult voyages throughout the year, as well as their popular day sails. The ship will also be taking part in the Tall Ships’ Races this summer, a sailing competition on an international scale which will see the ship sailing to Spain and Portugal. For more information see adventureundersail.com

CONTACT ME:

t: 01305 830978

e: rachel.stretton

@dorsetecho.co.uk

twitter: @DorsetEchoRach