Young people get training in the maritime industry

Young people in Bristol are gaining skills and qualifications to help them get into the maritime industry through a project designed to widen access to sailing and powerboating.

The New Horizons project, funded by the Royal Yachting Association (RYA), supports those who face barriers to employment by training them in powerboat handling and dinghy sailing.

"Sailing and powerboating isn't always something that everybody thinks they are able to do," said Gareth Brookes, head of regions at the RYA. "This project is about saying the water is for everybody."

Course participant Amir Ali Ahsant said riding a boat was one of "the best experiences ever" because of "the adventure and learning new skills".

The project is run by Young Bristol, a charity which works with 16-25-year-olds who have additional educational needs, have experienced homelessness, or have refugee status.

The scheme was set up five years ago and aims to give participants a chance to try water‑based activities they may never have had access to. The training itself is then provided by the Bristol Maritime Academy.

"We aim to accept anyone and help them to get into work or into further education," said Phil Harris, who leads Young Bristol's outdoor employment programme.

Brookes said the maritime sector is growing and needs more workers.

"The marine sector is bigger than most people would ever imagine, it's booming and there are new opportunities," he explained.

"We need young people from all different backgrounds.

"You can start here in the city, where there's a wonderfully rich maritime history, and then you could go and work all over the world on super yachts, become a professional skipper."

According to Young Bristol, the programme has delivered 80 qualifications in the past three months.

"It's been absolutely incredible this partnership. We've had a 100% success rate," said Harris.

"As soon as they get a job, as soon as they see their first paycheck, that changes their way of life and what they want to achieve. It's wonderful to see."

This year, the course has introduced powerboat handling, which is considered a key stepping stone to a job in the maritime industry.

Course participant Freya Leegwater-Bright said: "When they mentioned doing powerboat training, becoming commercially endorsed, I was so excited, and every second has been wonderful.

"It's been amazing."

Joseph Stephens has also enjoyed learning to drive a powerboat, and said: "It's just great fun."

Friends Owen Ashman and Jay Joinson already have their sights on future opportunities.

"My and my mate want to work with the harbour master, so this allows us to apply and see where it goes," said Joinson.

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