What I learned at the beach: leave worries to the grownups

In the final of our school trips series, ELEANOR BLACK and photographer PETER MEECHAM join Albany Primary School kids to see what Red Beach is all about.

What I learned when I went to Red Beach with Year 1 and 2 pupils from Albany Primary School:

1. Listen to instructors.

When a teacher or lifeguard claps his or her hands five times, stop talking and clap back. It may be time for a swim, which you have been looking forward to all term and can't wait to do, even if it is so cold and windy you shriek all the way down the beach.

2. Keep inside the boundaries.

Stay away from the water unless an adult is nearby. It's more fun in the water if your mum, who took the day off work especially to spend it with you, has to strip down to her togs and stand in the waves as a safety measure. She will freeze in the cold air but you, in your mini wetsuit, won't feel a thing.

3. If you have a question, raise your hand.

It doesn't matter if the question is irrelevant - if you don't ask you'll never know. The lecture on sunblock is as good a time as any to check on the chances of playing pool after the swim. And how else would you know that braces, like those worn by your water safety instructor, are not standard issue for lifeguards?

4. Don't throw sand.

It could hurt someone, especially as it may contain bits of pollution. If you are not sure of the answer to a question, say "Don't throw sand." If you want to get someone in trouble, accuse them of throwing sand.

5. Look after the equipment.

Lifeguards have to keep their oxygen tanks full and their rescue boats inflated. Your job is just as important: remember to pack your sandwiches and swimsuit and go to the toilet before getting on the bus.

6. Be sun smart.

When a grownup tries to cover your face in sunscreen, let them. Making faces and squirming will not prevent the inevitable. When the sunsmart lifeguard shows you the educational poster of people at the beach, the "sundummy" is the bright pink guy with sizzle lines radiating from his body.

7. Put away your rubbish.

If you don't, it could float far out to sea and harm the dolphins. This would be sad, because dolphins are pretty and make good sand sculptures, which you should name Dominic.

8. Have a fun day.

Whatever happens, let the adults worry about it.