Le Nivose French/History educational visit

On Wednesday we had a great trip to Le Nivose frigate with our Year 9 class and Year 10 History students. Le Nivose is a French surveillance frigate stationed at La Reunion island.

We were given a fascinating tour above and below deck and all got a chance to shoot the fire hose!

Students had plenty of good questions for the officers and the crew. Our reception was very friendly.

It seems that their prime role these days is combating international drugs gangs. So, everyone in France, Kenya and across the world owes the crew of Le Nivose a vote of thanks.

The frigate can patrol up to Oman and down to the Kergelen Islands. In addition to combating drug trafficking, Le Nivose carries anti-piracy missions and can localise and identify illegal vessels. The Panther helicopter on board helps with all these missions and can also carry rescue missions.

We also learnt that all the men and women on board are trained firefighters, from the chef, to the electrician. They practise all the necessary drills regularly in order to minimise incidents and ensure the quickest and most efficient response.

The frigate produces its own electricity and water.

Many thanks to Madame Mwangi for organising the visit.

Students’ voice

Jasmine: “I enjoyed the trip for many reasons, one being the part where we could spray the water for the firemen. I also enjoyed the tour of the ship and looking at the helicopter they use. I would 100% go again.”

Kate: “I enjoyed the trip because I got to know what happens and what they do on the ship. It was very exciting to tour the entire ship and get told what they use everything for.”

Ciara: “I enjoyed learning about the ship. My favourite part was the helicopter. I learnt that all the crew members have to undergo fire fighting training. I was surprised by the fact that they have a bakery and a kitchen on board.

James: “It was a very fun and interesting trip. I really liked the helicopter on the ship. The control room with all the controls really intrigued me. The main gun at the bow was impressive.”

Charity: “The time we spent on the ship was nice. It was a beautiful ship. I enjoyed finding out about the helicopter on board.”