The visit, coordinated by the Sir Thomas Lipton Foundation, offered the Primary 6 (aged 10-11) class from St Martha’s Primary School in Balornock the opportunity to learn about shipping and maritime professions through interactive experiences.

The pupils were educated by staff members on safety at sea, ship communications and bridge simulation training through three challenging and stimulating sessions.

Laurence Brady of Sir Thomas Lipton Foundation thanked Northern Marine for supporting the expedition.

He added:

“We are delighted to work closely with the fantastic team at Northern Marine Group in Clydebank for the visit of St Martha’s Primary School who are participating for the first time in our sea change programme called Buoyed Up. What a wonderful opportunity it is for the pupils to learn about the maritime world of work and the many skills and future work options.”

John O’Donnell, St Martha’s Primary school head teacher explained the benefit of the experience for the pupils.

He said:

“Linking with business and the World of Work provides our pupils with an awareness of a work place and the relevance of their school curriculum. Today they were able to see Literacy and Mathematics in action."

Thomas Campbell, Northern Marine Manning Services, Fleet Training Manager added:

“We were delighted to welcome St Martha’s Primary School to our facilities to gain a better understanding of the maritime sector and the countless professions which exist within. We are supportive of the Sir Thomas Lipton Foundation and its aims, and are grateful for the opportunity to be able to contribute to this worthy cause.”

For more information on the Sir Thomas Lipton Foundation and the Buoyed Up programme, please visit http://www.sirthomasliptonfoundation.org/sir-thomas-lipton-foundation-homepage.html