Alan Goodchild, managing director of Goodchild Marine shared his knowledge of design and innovation in naval architecture online to pupils and staff who were keen to learn more about boat design and engineering. He has been involved in boat building for many years moving to designing commercial port support craft in 1980 and recently worked on the design and manufacture of a groundbreaking vessel, the ‘Vanguard’ pilot boat.

‘Leader’ is the UK’s first hybrid pilot boat and is built by Goodchild Marine Services for the Port of London Authority helping to pave the way for dynamic improvements to the carbon footprint of cutters. This in depth talk was particularly interesting for those studying design, technology and physics showing how to apply what is learned to specific projects.

He has very kindly offered a tour of the boat yard and offices for interested pupils once restrictions are lifted.