Year 6 pupils from Christ Church C of E Primary School tried their hand at boat building last week in the first school trip of its kind this year.
Under the watchful eye of the crew of the MV Balmoral and Hugh from MyFuture MyChoice, the 11–12-year-olds spent the morning exploring the docks and discovering some of the historical facts about the creation of the iconic Bristol Harbourside. They also had the opportunity to learn how a ship works and visited the engine room and the bridge.
After a ferry trip around the more inaccessible areas of the waterside, the lucky Christ Church children took part in a boat building workshop. Led by a group of STEM-championing engineers, their designs were transformed into cardboard boats which were then launched in the docks this week.
The winning boat lasted 55 minutes in the water and was created by Zephy Popham’s team who were overseen by a submarine engineer from Babcock.
“This trip was not only an opportunity for the Year 6 children to learn more about Bristol Harbourside’s legacy as a gateway to unchartered seas, but it also offered the children the chance to see how STEM subjects could open up new doors for them as individuals,” said Gregor Campbell, Deputy Headteacher.
The outing was organised with the support of the following:
- Volunteer engineers from Babcock, Magnox. MOD and Bath Spa University
- The volunteer crew on board the Balmoral
- John in his ‘Rescue Boat’ and the other ‘Boat Shed’ Volunteers from All Aboard
- Young Bristol for the loan of bouyancy aids
- Bristol Harbour Office and Docks Engineers
www.christchurch.bristol.sch.uk
Christ Church Primary has spaces available for 2021 and 2022. Parents wishing to book a tour can call 0117 377 2830.