THREE teenagers set sail across the seas as part of a unique scheme to boost their teambuilding skills.

Joe Tanswell, Thomas Williamson and Benjamin Ing, all 14, and pupils at the Appleton School in Benfleet, spent four days on board two 72-feet yachts which are part of the Tall Ship's Youth Trust's Challenger fleet.

The Year 10 pupils were taking part in the third HSBC Tall Ships Youth Sailing Academy for school pupils, funded by the bank, and took a trip to Portsmouth.

Karen Kerridge, headteacher, said: "HSBC bank gave us the opportunity to send three students on a teambuilding course which was a four-day sailing break with all expenses paid for by the bank. They had a fantastic opportunity to join the crew on a sailing boat and they were looking at team work and working together.

"They've come back and said it was one fo the best experiences they've ever had."

The Sailing Academy teaches 14-15 year olds how to sail a Tall Ships Challenger Yacht.

The youngsters also complete their Royal Yacht Association competent crew certificate and develop life skills in the process.