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New maritime engineering course to be launched by Brockenhurst College

New maritime engineering course to be launched by Brockenhurst College

Young people aiming for a career in the fast-moving world of commercial shipping will be able to study an engineering-focussed Pre-cadetship in Maritime Technologies course at Brockenhurst College from September 2019.

It is aimed primarily at those who wish to pursue a career as a marine engineering officer in the Merchant Navy, although career paths in the Royal Navy also exist.

The maritime industry accounts for 120,000 jobs across the Solent region and represents 20% of the local economy, with trade worth a sizable £77.5 bn.

This makes the Southampton area key to the government’s recently-published Maritime 2050 strategy for continued economic activity.

The new Level 2 learning opportunity will be taught at the College’s Skills Centre at Marchwood and will feature many hands-on learning opportunities.

The programme provides a unique split between practical and theoretical lessons and incorporates additional qualifications such as the RYA Powerboat and the RYA First Aid at Sea awards.

Pre-cadets will benefit from industry-awareness visits to ships and ship yards, giving them real-world insights into the commercial shipping sector.

In addition, they will have access to modern ship simulators thanks to Brockenhurst College’s longstanding relationship with Solent University, which is well-known both nationally and internationally for its maritime learning provision.

Course leavers may secure direct entry onto a Level 3 Marine Engineering qualification, which will then give them access to a full cadetship, higher education, or an apprenticeship or employment.

College sources said the demand for skilled seafarers was high within commercial shipping, with opportunities on cruise ships, superyachts, ferries and tankers commonly available for the right candidates.

Head of Curriculum Lesley Chantler said: “This new programme gives learners the opportunity to focus on a career in the commercial shipping sector from the very start of their further education.

“Our well-equipped Skills Centre at Marchwood has everything learners need to acquire new knowledge and skills under the guidance and supervision of experts, along with good proximity to Southampton Water and the Solent,” she added.


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