Time Down the Thames

Award winning tutor uses his prize to treat students

South Essex College tutor Simon Lofting has won a lecturer’s award with the Jack Petchey Foundation. With the prize money, Simon chose to take his Level 2 Marine Engineering students to London for an educational day trip on the River Thames. 

The 14 students visited the Metropolitan Police Museum in Wapping, where they were given a guided tour and informative presentation from the Marine Policing unit about the history of the river and its buildings, which opened their eyes on what it’s like work afloat. They then headed off to the Thames Rocket for a high adrenaline speed trip on the river on a fast Rigid inflatable boat. Whilst out on the river, the boat was intercepted by the police Targa for an extra thrill. The Thames Rockets & Met Marine unit are companies where some of our students do their apprenticeships.

The Jack Petchey Foundation was set up to inspire and motivate young people and recognise them for their achievements. Since 1999, over £143 million has been invested in programmes to benefit young people aged 11-25 across London and Essex. They support many programmes, from sport to science, art to internships, vlogging to volunteering, and encourage every young person to get involved and try something new.

Simon said: “ I was lucky to be awarded ‘The Leader Award’ and  £1000 from the Jack Petchey foundation. I decided to reward the level 2 Marine engineering study group with an enrichment trip out. The boat trip allowed the students to see first-hand how cold it is to work around water and how dangerous it could be. The students learned a lot, and some amazing commentary about the Thames and its buildings by the Rockets narrators kept the students engaged. A fantastic day out.”

For more information on the Marine Engineering course, visit: Marine Engineering Level 2 Diploma | South Essex College