Students relish outdoor activities as part of the Tall Ships project

Students from both sides of the Channel joined forces in Folkestone at the weekend as part of a project promoting cross-border collaboration and building self-esteem.

It was the third and final weekend exchange of the Tall Ships project, which culminates on 7 July with the youngsters setting sail on a five-day voyage for Boulogne from Folkestone Harbour Arm, arriving in time to join the French Festival of the Sea on 11 July.

The project takes place every two years and is funded by Folkestone & Hythe District Council, Boulogne Town Council and Getlink Group (Eurotunnel Le Shuttle). It aims to promote team-building, while giving students opportunities of a life time both educationally and socially.

A total of 45 students, aged 13 to 15 from all secondary schools across the district and Boulogne, took part in the third weekend exchange of fun activities at Folkestone Sports Centre which included battle zone, dodge ball, walking, swimming, cross country challenges, a barbeque and roller disco, plus a trip to Port Lympne Safari Park.

Cllr Mrs Jenny Hollingsbee, Cabinet Member for Communities, said: “The Tall Ships project really is a fantastic, once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for those students who participated and they’ll treasure their memories forever.

“It was delightful to observe how they all worked as a team, as well as witness the real friendships and fantastic camaraderie between them all.

“I’m extremely proud of the Council-funded Tall Ships project because it really does make a difference to so many young people’s lives, as it’s intended for those who may never be able to gain access to this type of opportunity.”

After a successful weekend of activities, we now look forward to the final stage of the project – the departure of the Tall Ship ‘Pelican’ on Sunday 7 July – where the final 24 chosen young people will set sail on a five-day voyage for Boulogne from Folkestone Harbour Arm, where they will be greeted by all of the students on their arrival in time to join the French Festival of the Sea on Thursday 11 July.

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