Business and computing students at Coleg Sir Gâr visited Burry Port’s RNLI lifeboat station as part of their studies in IT and community participation. The visit focussed on the IT structure at the lifeboat station.
Students learned how satellite communication is used for navigation and the use of electronic systems for call-outs as well as how IT is relied on for training, using specialist computer simulations illustrating hazardous situations faced by crew members.
The students, who are all following the Welsh Baccalaureate programme, were led by RNLI volunteer education officer Hugh Owen, who also gave the students a full tour of the boat and why it carries certain equipment and how maps and charts are used on board in call-out situations.
Debbie Jones, youth worker at Coleg Sir Gâr says:
‘The students not only had a great time, but they learned a lot. The visit not only contributed to their studies but also raised awareness of the coastal dangers faced by the public. I was personally amazed to see how many youngsters have been stranded on banks and how many people have lost their lives because they didn’t have lifejackets. We’d like to thank Hugh Owen and his team for a most informative and welcome visit.’