Step aboard for a hands-on maritime adventure these school holidays with Historic Ketch Falie Inc’s expanded Pirate School Program — a fun, educational, and interactive experience designed for young explorers aged approximately 7–12 years.

This special 2-hour holiday session combines practical activities, creativity, teamwork, and maritime heritage in a way that keeps children engaged from start to finish.

During the session, participants will:

Learn real sailor knots used aboard historic ships
Create and build their own take-home knot board
Learn how signal flags were once used to communicate at sea
Explore basic compass and navigation skills
Hear stories inspired by the historic ketch Falie and South Australia’s maritime history

The program is designed to be hands-on, beginner-friendly, and highly interactive, with children actively participating rather than simply watching demonstrations.

Every participant will receive materials to use during the workshop, and children will leave with practical skills, maritime knowledge, and their own completed knot board creation.

Why Pirate School is Different

Unlike many passive holiday activities, Pirate School blends:

Maritime heritage and storytelling

STEM-style practical learning

Craft and problem-solving

Team participation and confidence-building

Real-world historical skills adapted for children

The program is presented by volunteers from Historic Ketch Falie Inc, helping preserve and share the stories of one of South Australia’s most significant historic working ships.

Holiday workshop/activity/meet-up

Learning Outcomes Knowledge & Understanding Gain knowledge of traditional maritime skills and history, including the story of the historic ketch Falie and South Australia’s seafaring heritage. Understand how signal flags were used for communication at sea in the past. Learn basic principles of direction, navigation, and how compasses work. Practical Skills Master how to tie real, useful sailor knots used on historic vessels. Build and take home a personal knot board to practice and display their new skills. Develop hands‑on ability with simple navigation and signal systems. Personal & Social Growth Build confidence through active participation and hands‑on doing rather than just watching. Strengthen teamwork, problem‑solving, and creative thinking skills. Develop an appreciation for history, maritime traditions, and preserving local heritage.