Each year, we are committed to supporting several charities. However, we are keen
to make our efforts more meaningful—not only by raising funds, but also by actively
involving our pupils. Our aim is to give them the chance to contribute directly,
experience the joy of helping others, and feel part of their wider community.
This year, we have been given access to a historic boat, Jumbo. We see this as a
unique opportunity both to support isolated communities and to provide wellbeing
and curriculum enrichment for our pupils.

St. Crispin’s Charity & Community Project 2025 – 2026

Jumbo: A story of a boat which has been brought back to life, now with a renewed purpose.

A Little Ship with a Big Story: Operation Jumbo

St. Crispin’s is thrilled to announce a truly unique opportunity! We have secured access to a
historic 1920’s Little Ship, Jumbo, a vessel that once played a heroic role in the evacuation
of Dunkirk during World War II. Now, this incredible piece of history will become part of our
school’s future — bringing learning, wellbeing, and community together in exciting new
ways.

Building Connections – Community Outreach

Once a month, the Little Ship will welcome members of isolated communities for an
afternoon of friendship, conversation, and connection. Staff and volunteers will launch the
project, with our pupils soon joining in to support — making a real difference while learning
the power of compassion and service.

Supporting Our Pupils – Wellbeing on the Water

The boat will also become a space for pupil wellbeing. Whether it’s quiet reflection, a chance
to recharge, or time out to boost concentration, the Little Ship will provide a calm and
inspiring environment, helping our pupils to thrive both in and out of the classroom.
It will provide a peaceful environment for reflection and focus, giving pupils opportunities to
step away from the classroom and return refreshed and motivated. This experience will be
woven into our wider wellbeing strategy, encouraging balance, resilience, and a strong
sense of belonging.

Learning Comes to Life

Beyond wellbeing, the Little Ship will enrich our curriculum. Pupils will be able to take part in
activities such as becoming Water Rangers—collecting samples to contribute to
environmental projects, enhancing learning in Geography and Science. The boat will also
inspire creativity in Art, supporting themes such as Aqua Life, and provide hands-on
experiences that bring subjects to life. In English, pupils will be able to see first hand the
inspiration of great works such as Swallows and Amazons to inspire their learning.  This
unique resource will help pupils connect their learning to the wider world in innovative and
engaging ways.

A Voyage of Community, Wellbeing, and Discovery

This project is more than just a partnership — it’s a journey. Together, we’ll celebrate history,
strengthen community bonds, support wellbeing, and inspire learning. St. Crispin’s pupils
and families are at the heart of it, helping us set sail on something truly special for 2025 –
2026.

The Remarkable History of Jumbo

Jumbo is no ordinary vessel — she carries with her over a century of history, courage, and
adventure.

A Glamorous Beginning

Launched in 1923, Jumbo was originally built as a luxury pleasure yacht for the Mayor of
Brightlingsea. She quickly became a familiar sight in sailing races, bringing home many gold
medals and even earning the title of the fastest ship across the Channel!

Service in War

When the Second World War began, Jumbo was called upon for a far greater mission. She
was seconded by the Royal Navy and transformed into a Mine Gasser — a ship fitted with a
powerful magnetic coil in her hull, used to neutralize deadly mines ahead of the mine
sweepers. This dangerous work kept Britain’s south coast safe from invasion.

Operation Dynamo: A Hero’s Journey

Jumbo’s most famous achievement came during Operation Dynamo, the historic evacuation
of Dunkirk in 1940. Alongside hundreds of other “Little Ships,” Jumbo bravely crossed the
Channel to rescue stranded soldiers. Her service was so significant that she even received a
telegram from Winston Churchill himself, enlisting her into the war effort.

Rescued and Restored

After the war, Jumbo sadly fell into disrepair and was eventually discovered drifting on the
River Trent. Thankfully, years of dedicated restoration and historical investigation brought
her back to life. Today, she is fully seaworthy once more — ready to serve a new mission of
community, education, and inspiration.

Jumbo’s Next Chapter

From pleasure yacht to wartime hero, from neglect to restoration, Jumbo’s story is one of
resilience and renewal. Now, in partnership with St. Crispin’s, she begins her next chapter:
bringing people together, supporting education, and inspiring future generations