The project involved more than 100 students from Circles Alternative Education, which is based in Stock, near Billericay.
The finished boat floating on the Blackwater Estuary (Image: Circles Alternative Education)
For the past three years, young people from Circles have been working on building the boat from scratch and learning a variety of new skills along the way.
The project was kickstarted after Ady Riva from the Shipways Boatyard in Maldon offered a kit boat to Circles’ woodwork department, which they accepted at a heavily discounted rate.
Circles Alternative Education learners working on the boat (Image: Circles Alternative Education)
The construction of the vessel introduced the young people to practical skills in carpentry, engineering, plumbing, maths, and electronics.
Last week, the boat was launched with the support of Tollesbury Marina, who offered their services for free.
Circles Alternative Education learners working on the boat (Image: Circles Alternative Education)
The 20-ft gaff cutter was first slipped from its trailer into the water, before it was floated out to a jetty.
Chris Martin, the head of engineering and construction at Circles, said: “big projects like this really help to engage the young people we work with,”
Circles Alternative Education learners working on the boat (Image: Circles Alternative Education)
“They become more enthusiastic when they are involved in making something as impressive as this.”
Many of the participants, having started the project while at Circles, have now advanced to college or begun apprenticeships.
Circles Alternative Education caters to young people who face challenges in mainstream education environments.
Circles Alternative Education learners working on the boat (Image: Circles Alternative Education)
The centre emphasises practical, skills-based learning, offering an array of courses including bricklaying, hair and beauty, animal care, and carpentry.
In the past, students at the school have rebuilt cars and restored a 1965 Lambretta scooter.
Chris said: “Though these projects can be frustrating for the learners as they can not drive them when they are complete.
Circles Alternative Education learners working on the boat (Image: Circles Alternative Education)
“However, with this boat project they will all be able to have a go at sailing it.”
The boat is called a Scruffie 20 and is based on a traditional Essex fishing smack, though it was constructed using modern materials such as plywood and epoxy matting.
Circles Alternative Education learners working on the boat (Image: Circles Alternative Education)
This gave the young people involved in the construction the chance to learn a wide range of skills which are transferable to different industries. Circles plans to use the boat for teaching purposes such as sailing, boat handling skills, and fishing trips for its students.
Read more on Maldon and Burnham Standard
