Student Scoops Prize for ‘Well-Cut Jib’
Sixteen students and staff from Purbrook Park School will be visiting the prestigious London Excel Boat Show in January, following their success in the ‘Schools Marine Challenge’ at the Manufacturing, Engineering and Marine Skills Festival in October 2007.
The Hampshire based Skills Festival, highlighted career opportunities in manufacturing, engineering and marine industries and was attended by over 1500 students. One of them was Katharine Davies of Purbrook Park School who visited the British Marine Federation stand to gather information on becoming a 'Yacht Designer'.
Liv Whetmore (BMF Training Advisor) described Katharine as; "A very focused young lady who was ensuring she had the skills to achieve her ambition."
Katharine then visited the Schools Marine Challenge stand where she designed the sails for a racing yacht to compete against entries from other schools. After a day of racing, two yachts tied for first place on their race times. Race Organiser, Rob Austin, had to consider other factors to select the winner. In his opinion Katharine's design had the sleek lines and look of a racing vessel and this has ensured that Purbrook Park will be studying the latest marine technology in January.
During the last 18 months Marine South East has worked with many young people who have a keen interest in the marine sector and pursue it through a variety of activities such as, sailing schemes, adventure groups, or even helming the local water taxi at weekends.
Marine employers could benefit from their enthusiasm by recruiting school leavers and helping them to develop their skills. Marine South East can put you in contact with 'Ambassadors' who have experience of training apprentices within their own company. If you would like to speak with them and find out how they are successfully developing their workforce please e-mail David Rea on david@marinesoutheast.co.uk or call 023 80 111 597.
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