Teachers and counsellors got a crash course on life at sea when they took part in a voyage on board the Spirit of Bermuda.

Fifteen officials from the Ministry of Education and the Department of Youth and Sport, were invited to spend a day aboard ship to see what their students go through.

The ship’s curriculum gives a crash course in education and teamwork during five-day expeditions, sponsored by both Government and the private sector.

By May 10, more than 280 students under the age of 21 will have taken part in the project. Groups of eight take part in the voyage and are split into teams based on learning style and personality.

All passengers were first given safety tips from crew-members, and then taken below deck for a detailed presentation from the programme’s executive director, Malcolm Kirkland.

Mr. Kirkland spoke of the many social challenges faced by the youth and emphasised how this initiative helps to promote unity and positive development.

He said: “I think all kids have a natural curiosity to learn bad or good things. We are trying to get them to enjoy learning something positively, and new in a real way without being lectured to.’’

Kalreta Conyers-Steede, an education officer, was very excited to take part in the day’s activities.

“I’m finding this very beneficial, I can see the integration of a number of things in terms of science, motion, social studies,” she said. “I’m getting the best of both worlds I think. I’m learning, I’m feeling and I’m getting some physical activity as well.”

When asked if the programme will have any lasting impact on youth, Mrs. Steede was optimistic about the lessons that can be practised in the real world.

“This is authentic learning. All the things you learn in a classroom are being put to place here, as well as team-work,” she added.

“If I don’t release this rope, my team-mates on the other side will not be able to hoist the sail. I have to be in constant connection with them which leads to better communication.

While some people quickly ran out of energy and stood on the side chatting and snapping pictures, others were too busy hanging onto the deck as seas became unsettled at times.

After being treated to lunch below deck, most people returned above to ask questions about the boat and take in the scenes of the north shore.

“This runs through my blood,” said Melvin Martin, 21, one of the youngest members of the crew, who has worked with boats since the age of 14.

He said: “I’ve been sailing since I was young, when I did a course in circumnavigation for ten months at sea.

“I participated in the Tall Ships 2000 race that came to Bermuda, and my father is also a Tug Boat Captain.”

Relating to the issues of Middle School kids is easier - according to Martin - because of his age bracket.

“When dealing with kids, because I am not too old I have a better sense of where they are coming from,” he added.

The $5.7 million vessel - completed last year - is owned by The Bermuda Sloop Foundation, which was incorporated in 1999 and later became a registered charity.

Its youth programme ‘Coastal Bermuda,’ aims to teach discipline and learning and social skills so young people can function better in society.

Students also receive hands-on experience in meteorology, marine life, navigation, as well as Bermuda’s economic development. For more information about this course, log onto www.bermudasloop.org.