Leon, age 14 and a pupil at Venturers’ Academy said:

I have learnt how to believe in myself and I’m braver than I ever was before.

Ainsley, age 10 and a pupil at Venturers’ Academy said:

I’ve never been away from my mum for that long, so I was a little bit homesick, but mostly I was excited.

Fern, age 11 a pupil at The Dolphin School, said:

The Wettest Classroom was an amazing experience, especially seeing all the sea life. The trip has definitely made me more responsible and resilient. It also made me realise that I can explore new places and home will always be there when I get back.

I learnt that you have to keep going, even when things get tough. And that there’s a really big world out there to explore!

Ainsley, age 10 a pupil at Venturers' Academy said:

I really liked cooking the meals, we made blueberries inside pancakes for breakfast one day, which was delicious.

Chloe, age 17 and a pupil at MA.16 Sixth Form said:

I wanted to inspire my younger sisters to aim high and try new things. I knew that if they saw me take on this challenge, they’d wonder what extraordinary things they could achieve in life!

Connor, age 17 also from MA.16 Sixth Form, said:

Mentoring the younger pupils was really rewarding. Some were seasick and some were homesick. Some questioned their ability to take on challenging tasks, such as climb the rigging. Providing encouragement and support to them made me feel proud of myself.

The experience has made me want to find a career that allows me to support and encourage others.

Ciara, age 10 a pupil at The Dolphin School, said:

I learnt how important it is to be able to rely on the people around you.

Tallulah, age 11 and a pupil at The Dolphin School, said:

I learnt that if I put my mind to it and try my hardest, I really can achieve anything!

Jamie, age 15 from Venturers’ Academy said: 

I loved it. Climbing to the top of the mast, learning how to cook and gaining my Young Yacht Master Award was brilliant. I feel very proud of myself.

Also from Venturers’ Academy, Ainsley, age 12 said:

I didn’t think someone like me would be chosen. It was an amazing experience, can we do it again?!”