Sailing Experience for Sound School Pupils

As part of the annual school trip programme, 37 pupils and 6 teachers were able to participate in the sailing trips, thanks to funding from the Zetland Educational Trust.

The trips took place over 2 days in May, just before Swan left for a public trip to Bergen to join the Constitution Day celebrations.

Pupils were supported by the Swan crew to haul the sails, take the helm and learn how the traditional sailing boat is operated.

"I liked the fact that we got to take control. They weren't doing all the stuff for us."

Any sailing experience on Swan ensures that those taking part are not simply watching the crew sail the boat - it's a hands on activity with everyone on board playing a part in the operation.

"I enjoyed it when I had to tug the ropes and put up the sails."

Feedback from the pupils was very positive and highlighted how they enjoyed the practical learning experience. A trip on board Swan provides a much more physical and memorable learning experience than that which can be provided in a classroom. Feeling the pull of the ropes, smelling the wood and the sea air and being immersed in the atmosphere of the boat cannot be replicated anywhere other than on board. For young people living on an island this is a valulable learning experience.

"It was interesting to find out about the history of the boat"

"I enjoyed seeing where they all slept"