Two Beckton pupils have returned from a tall ship adventure.

Lake Barrett and Liveta Mankauskaite, both aged 16, of Kingsford Community School in Kingsford Way were among 48 UK students in the 11th anniversary Tall Ships Youth Trust Voyage of Achievement, funded by HSBC.

Head teacher Joan Deslandes said: “I am delighted to see our two pupils, Liveta and Jake, participate in the Tall Ships Youth Trust.

“Both Liveta and Jake took charge of this fantastic opportunity, organised in partnership with HSBC, to challenge themselves.

“I have no doubt that they thoroughly enjoyed the adventure.

“Kingsford Community School is proud to see our pupils realise the wider opportunities available to the young people in Newham and to open their eyes to the world beyond our shores.

“They have set a fine example.”

The intrepid duo completed their 10-night voyage by sailing under Tower Bridge last week.

The adventure began on Monday, July 4, when Lake and Liveta set off from Newcastle-upon-Tyne on the tall ship Stavros S Niarchos.

During their journey on the 200ft vessel, Liveta and Jake sailed up the north-east coast to Montrose in Scotland before crossing the North Sea to Holland and then returning to England.

After joining the ship at Newcastle, the students were assigned to one of three watches (teams).

These watches spent the journey working together, living eight to a cabin and rising at 4am for their duties.

While on board Lake and Liveta took part in all aspects of sailing the ship, including steeringSS and scaling the 45ft masts to set and stow sails, and navigating.

The voyage is designed to develop young people’s life skills and build their confidence through working in a team and learning first hand about sailing, geography and weather systems.

Over the past 11 years, more than 500 youngsters have taken part in the project with a number returning to work as volunteers with the trust, while some have gone on to develop a career in the marine industry or taken up sailing.