For the past seven months, Twickenham teenager Katie Hardaker has been studying hard just like a lot of kids her age.

The only difference is that Katie has been doing this while sailing all over the world.

"During the journey we worked as deckhands with full day and night sailing, cooking and cleaning duties whilst also following a grammar school curriculum on board and learning nautical theory," Katie said.

"In addition to life on the ocean the we also spent time with indigenous tribes in Panamanian islands and rainforests, visited local schools, explored rural Cuba and climbed mountains on every major land we stayed in."

Between tough work schedules, storms in the north Atlantic, no access to wifi or mobile phones on the ship, she was certainly put to the test.

"I'd be lying if I said I didn't sometimes want to beam myself home to my warm bed," Katie added.

"Despite the challenges I loved every minute of my unique adventure.

"I have learnt more in the past seven months than in years before.

"The most amazing thing was the community we formed on board and I miss my ship mates even though I am really happy to be back with my family and friends in Twickenham."

Katie said she learnt a lot about the world, but learnt more about herself

"I'm incredibly grateful to have had this opportunity," she said.

"I want to thank everyone who supported me in my application, helped me in with the funding or sent me letters and encouraging comments on my blog along the way.

"Wonderful friends and family, Radnor House, my scout and St John ambulance leaders and generous up-to-then strangers like Matt from Pixel Panda who for example showed me how to take and transfer my photos in the best way.

"I am now looking forward to starting my A-levels but I am definitely hooked on the sea so boats will be part of my life in the future, no matter what career I pursue."

You can read more about Katie's voyage on her blog.