The JTYAF was delighted to support three pupils from St Michael’s Middle School on an unforgettable Tall Ships adventure—an opportunity that would not have been possible without funding.

Throughout the voyage, the pupils worked as a team to sail the boat and share the responsibilities of life on board. On deck, they took turns at the helm, operated winches, hoisted sails and learnt how to tie knots for different purposes. Below deck, they completed engine checks, helped with navigation, cleaned, washed up and prepared meals for 15 people.

Favourite moments

· Sailing at night from Studland to Cowes

· Taking the helm as they passed The Needles and its flashing lighthouse

· Feeling the boat heel in the wind and dangling their legs over the side

· Climbing the mast

· Making new friendships

· Learning how to carry out engine checks

Challenges overcome

· Staying away from home for the first time

· Working with new people

· Coping with nausea during a long sail

· Wearing a safety harness and climbing out along the spinnaker pole above the water

By the end of the adventure, the pupils had developed valuable skills in teamwork, perseverance, determination and resilience. These lessons, and the memories they made at sea, will stay with them as they face new challenges in the future.