16th November 2021
More than half of the young people who completed the first ‘Maritime Futures’ training course have gained employment in the maritime sector.
The first cohort of six trainees completed the programme to achieve all 11 certificates on offer. Within a month of the course completion four participants were offered employment, one is now a Merchant Navy Cadet and engineering student. The remaining participant is receiving support from East Coast Maritime Training to find work.
Delivered by East Coast Maritime Training, on behalf of the Hull City Council’s Hull Maritime project, the three-week intensive course is designed to support those who are looking to start their career in the fishing industry or other offshore sectors.
Over the next two years, the ‘Maritime Futures’ programme will offer 100 young people aged 16-25 and the unemployed the chance to complete the recognised training with the aim of 75 per cent of those going on to secure employment within 12 months of completion.
Councillor Daren Hale, Leader of the Council, said: “I am delighted with the success of the first training programme. It just shows what can be achieved by the young people if the tools are there to support them.
“Maritime Futures is one of the ways in which we are investing in the people of the city by developing their skills and creating opportunities to strengthen our local economy.
“The programme provides young and unemployed people in Hull with a meaningful training opportunity, supporting them to gain employment, while learning about the industries that made Hull the city that it is today.”
Over the next two years, the ‘Maritime Futures’ programme will offer 100 young people aged 16-25 and the unemployed the chance to complete the recognised training with the aim of 75% of those going on to secure employment within 12 months of completion. Mohamed is one of six people to complete the first course.
Mohamed is one of six people to complete the first course, he said: “The training was phenomenal. It was a mixture of practical skills and life experience. The instructors have all been there and lived it.
“I’m really looking forward to starting my new job. I studied business management at college but because I didn't have any experience, the only work I could find was in factories. The course taught me you can do whatever you want to if you put your mind to it. It is a massive shift in my career path and pushing me out of my comfort zone but I’m looking forward to the experience.
“I’m so thankful to the funders as I never would have been able to pay for it myself. I’m really grateful for the opportunity to build a better life for me and my family.”
Fellow trainee Alex Parker, 20, whose long-term ambition of joining the Merchant Navy as a marine engineer, said: “It was really inspiring listening to the first-hand experiences of the course tutors and gaining a real insight into the progression routes available. There are so many opportunities in the maritime industry, especially for young people, that just aren’t available on land. It’s a real chance to make something of yourself. It’s also a great support network and a chance to make good connections.
“I’ve always wanted to work in the marine industry. When you’re at sea, you realise the urban land isn’t as good. There’s nothing like spending the night under a clear sky. There’s a real sense of freedom. You are responsible for yourself and your crew and while that comes with risk, it also comes with great satisfaction.”
The accredited course provides vocational training alongside first-hand knowledge from former trawlermen, offering students a real insight to working in these industries. As well as hands-on skills, trainees also learn about all aspects of the current fishing industry, with 12 separate certificates being awarded to successful candidates. A partnership with the University of Hull Maritime Studies Department gives a historical context of the city.
Modules include mandatory safety training in firefighting, first aid, sea survival and health & safety along with engineering, radio procedures, watch keeping and navigation. Also, life skills, teamwork, and forward planning. The course includes a day of raft building at the nearby Kelsey Gardens to underpin the knowledge learnt on the sea survival, seamanship, and stability courses.
To apply for future courses or further information email Training@ecmt.co.uk or visit www.ecmt.co.uk
The Hull Maritime project, funded by Hull City Council and The National Lottery Heritage Fund, encompasses the redevelopment of five historic sites in Hull city centre: the transformation of the Grade II Hull Maritime Museum and the Dock Office Chambers, the creation of a new visitor attraction at the North End Shipyard and the restoration of two historic vessels, the Arctic Corsair and Spurn Lightship.
