Find your sea legs this half term at a Sailors’ Academy at the HISTORIC DOCKYARD CHATHAM.

From Saturday, February 14, to Sunday, February 22, children and grown-ups can go aboard the impressive Victorian Naval Sloop, HMS Gannet and join the Sailors’ Academy to sharpen their nautical skills.

They will learn how to tie knots and whistle commands; they can follow the ship’s cat trail; learn flag signalling and nautical language; try out a hammock and find out about HMS Gannet’s armaments.

While aboard, they can explore her history through new display boards below deck. Activities are being held on deck, as well as undercover in the Commander’s Cabin and below deck.

One of the Sailors’ Academy crew will be demonstrating the hazards of cannon firing in No 3. Covered Slip, and certificates will be awarded to the new recruits each day.

Fully-fledged members of the Sailors’ Academy can join the rest of the Dockyard’s visitors and visit the new exhibition HMS Victory: The Untold Story.

Details: Entry costs £19 for adults, £11.50 for children or £49.50 for a family.

Visit www.thedockyard.co.uk or call 01634 823800.