MORE than 60 pupils from a Launceston primary school have visited Newlyn to learn more about how fish finds its way from sea to plate.
The children from Years 2 and 4 at St Catherine's Church of England Primary School, toured the fish market to put their species identification skills to the test, met fishermen and learned about the different types of boat to be seen in the harbour, as well as going on board the Penlee lifeboat for a session on sea safety.
Then it was off to W Harvey and Sons' shellfish tanks where they enjoyed looking at and touching the different species of edible shellfish which are native to Cornwall.
Their Sea to Plate experience was finished off appropriately with a tasty and sustainable fish-and-chip lunch.
Study
The pupils have been learning all about fishing and seafood in the Fish For the Future study unit developed by Penryn community interest company Sense Of Place.
The visit was organised by Seafood Cornwall Training and sponsored by local fish processor Falfish.
Merryn, from Year 4, said: "The best thing about our trip was when I could hold the crabs and lobsters. It was really fun and interesting when my group could go on the lifeboat." Joseph said: "The best thing about our trip to Newlyn was everything, especially when I had to be weighed on the fish market."
Sarah Crosbie, manager of Seafood Cornwall Training, said: "Bringing children to Newlyn from Cornish schools means they can see, feel and breathe the fishing industry, a key part of Cornwall's heritage and economic future.
"We adapt each visit to suit the children's needs and if past visits are anything to go by, it's something the children won't ever forget. Thanks to the support received from Falfish we are able to offer four more school visits this term, free of charge, and can assist with the associated costs."
Falfish managing director Mark Greet said: "It's really great to see the children enjoy learning about the fishing industry and Newlyn harbour."
For information on school visits to Newlyn contact Sarah Crosbie on 01736 364324 or visit www.seafoodcornwalltraining.co.uk
article copyright THE CORNISHMAN