IT was plain sailing for this group of Greenock schoolchildren as they got a fascinating tour round the Ferguson Marine shipyard.

Youngsters from Lady Alice Primary saw behind the scenes as they got an exclusive insight into life at the Port shipyard.

Claire McNicol, primary four/five class teacher, says some pupils were so inspired that many of them now have ambitions to work in the industry when they’re older.

She said: “The children absolutely loved it.

“They learned everything about the job.

“Hugh and Andrew at Ferguson’s were brilliant as they showed us round the yard and showed us the ships they are building at the moment.

“The children also got the chance to see the welding equipment and even met the architect behind a ferry they’re building.

“They are all really inspired and are desperate to go back.” The visit was part of the school’s World of Work Week, where the children learned about the important roles various organisations and their staff have in the local community and beyond.

Miss McNicol added: “In our class we had visits from a Scottish poet, a librarian and the captain of a ship.

“Other visits throughout the school include an ambulance worker, police officers and a bank worker.

“It was a great week.” See today's Tele for full pictures.