Isle of Wight schoolchildren set sail for a potential career at sea
27th July 2022
A school trip aboard Wightlink’s Yarmouth to Lymington ferry has set primary school children on course for a career at sea.
More than 40 pupils from the Federation of the Church Schools of Shalfleet and Yarmouth enjoyed a round trip aboard one of Wightlink’s fleet as part of the ongoing partnership between the schools and the ferry company.
The youngsters were given an introduction into how a cross-Solent ferry works by Island Port Operations Manager Martin Gulliver and also spent time on the Bridge of Wight Light with Captain Ian Henderson to find out how crew actually sail the ship across the Solent.
Liam Roberts, School Lead, says: “All the children had a fantastic time onboard, giving them a much greater insight into how a boat operates.
“To have the opportunity to take part in a return passage and visit the Bridge was absolutely fantastic and will stay with them for a long time. For days afterwards the children were asking questions to the point that we were tracking vessels in the Solent and wondering where they would have been going.
“A number of children mentioned how they wanted to be like Captain Ian when they grow up which surely speaks volumes for the positive impact of the day.”
Martin Gulliver adds: “Part of the reason for entering into partnerships with the schools nearest our ports is to try to broaden pupils’ horizons and to make them think about a maritime career.
“We are delighted that the pupils had such a good time and, who knows, maybe there is a future Wightlink captain amongst them!”
Picture caption: Shalfleet Primary youngsters enjoy their sail on Wight Light
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