WITH summer just around the corner, although it may not feel like it, youngsters at one Ivybridge primary school have been learning how to stay safe at the beach.

Lifeguards from the Royal National Lifeboat Institution visited The Erme Primary School last week to teach them about beach safety, and the work of the RNLI in general.

The children found out about different warning flags that are used at the beach, and how to keep safe in the sun and water. They also had a chance to come up with their own ideas about what might be dangerous at the seaside, with each suggestion dealt with by the lifeguards. 

The presentation was held in the school playground so children could have a look at the special truck used on the beach, and take the opportunity to let off exciting sirens and flashing lights. Some pupils were even allowed to use the loudspeaker to warn people about dangers on the beach.

The school’s head of teaching and learning Kate Eames said: ’The lifeguards were very entertaining and presented their important information in a way the children could engage with.

’At The Erme, we believe it is very important for children to learn how to stay safe and assess risks to themselves. We hope they will share all this information with their parents and family next time they go to the beach.

’We would like to thank the RNLI for making this exciting opportunity possible.’