Michael said he was overwhelmed by his reception Arrival in Antigua

Michael Perham from Potters Bar, ended his 3,500-mile voyage when he sailed into Nelson's Dockyard in Antigua on 3 January after six weeks at sea.

He had set off from Gibraltar on board his 28ft (8.5m) yacht, Cheeky Monkey.

Michael received a hero's welcome during assembly at Chancellor's School in Brookmans Park, Hertfordshire.

Michael, who lives with his parents and sister, is in the first year of his GCSE studies.

'Inspire others'

Chancellor's School head teacher Stuart Philips said: "Michael's achievements will inspire other pupils to want to achieve great things.

"We are thrilled and proud at what he has done. His achievements will rub off on other students at the school and help them see they can do things," he said.

When Michael and his family first planned the trip it was hoped he could keep up with his school studies by email.

In the end it was decided he would take books along with him to keep up with his work.

Michael and his father, Peter, who shadowed him on the voyage in another boat, arrived at Gatwick airport on Wednesday morning.