YEAR 9 geography students from Tavistock College started an exciting project in September — bringing the real world into the classroom.

Each member of the class wrote to a crew member on board the Royal Naval Frigate HMS Northumberland, currently on deployment in The Gulf and Arabian Sea.

The class asked them about their geographical experiences and highlights of their deployment so far, as the class is hoping for an insight into geography in action before doing a unit on 'conflict' later this year.

Crew from HMS Northumberland have enjoyed receiving the letters and will post their responses from the next port, as well as charts and maps to show their deployment journey so far.

The ship's company has been so impressed by the communications that it has suggested contining the link beyond one letter. A visit to the ship has also been suggested and the sailors working with the college will be invited to come out to the school for a workshop scenario.

Mrs Froud from the Tavistock College geography department said: 'This project is one that we would like to see evolve — promoting students learning of geography in action whilst supporting our servicemen and women at the same time. It is a superb way to engage students of all abilities.'

CPO AWW Burgoyne speaking from the Gulf said: 'It's been a great opportunity for members of the ship's company to educate Tavistock Year 9 geography students on elements of our deployment. We look forward to hosting them on board one day.'