Life changing nautical adventure for Wimborne pupils

Ten students from St Michael’s CE Middle School in Wimborne have returned from an unforgettable voyage at sea, taking part in an offshore sailing adventure powered by Tall Ships Youth Trust (TSYT).
The voyage gave them the opportunity to live and work aboard a 72ft ocean-going yacht.

Supported by generous bursary funding from TSYT, the young crew took on every aspect of life at sea. From helming the yacht, hoisting sails, and navigating at night from Studland to Cowes, to climbing the mast and cooking meals for a crew of 15, the students developed vital life skills including resilience, teamwork, and independence.

Heather Prest, teacher and voyage leader at St Michael’s CE Middle School said: “Our pupils benefited enormously from this experience. A significant number of our crew face additional challenges in their lives, and this voyage was an invaluable opportunity to build their confidence and perseverance. They faced real challenges – from managing sea nausea to stepping up into leadership roles and climbing out on the spinnaker pole – and learnt that with teamwork and determination, they can overcome all sorts of challenges. Many parents have already commented on the incredible difference in their children since returning.”

Beyond mastering sailing skills, the crew built lasting friendships and learnt lessons they can take forward into their everyday lives and future transitions, such as moving to upper school in September.

Anna Jakob at Tall Ships Youth Trust, said: “We are hugely proud of the crew from St Michael’s CE Middle School. Stepping aboard one of our vessels requires courage, adaptability, and real teamwork. Seeing these young people grow in confidence, support one another through challenges, and discover what they are truly capable of is at the heart of why TSYT exists. They should be immensely proud of everything they achieved at sea.”