Kent Marine Skills Festival, 9th october 2009
The Education Business Partnership (EBP) has joined forces with Kent County Council to host the 2009 Kent Marine Skills Festival at the Dover Cruise Terminal.
Hot on the heels of the incredibly successful 2008 Kent Marine Skills Festival, which attracted over 1500 young people from 30 schools in Kent and was backed by 70 companies and organisations, this year's event also promises to provide an explosion of information on marine skills, training and career opportunities.
The 2009 festival promises to be bigger and better than last years with more interactive displays than ever before and exhibition space for late entries extremely limited.
This year there will also be an opportunity for adults who are not in employment, education or training to attend after 3.30 pm as a result of the festival's engagement with Job Centre Plus.
During the day the Festival will focus on engaging with students from Kent schools and colleges through practical, hands-on activity showcasing the vast array of skills and training available.
All who attend will be treated to tours of ships, practical engineering, navigational challenges, and a look at the vital role HM Coastguards play. This specialised event will address frequently asked questions such as, how are ships, including cruise ships, built? What skills are required? How can I train for that role? Are careers available in the Merchant Navy and ancillary industries?
The overarching aim of the 2009 Kent Maine Skills Festival is to help spark an interest in and a zest for the marine sector. Emphasis is also placed on encouraging students towards further education as well as ultimately creating a new generation of maritime specialists employed in the UK.
Anne McNulty, Executive Director EBP Kent, said;
"We are so grateful to the marine sector and the dedicated Dover Partnership working collaboratively to make a difference to the young people of this county.
"The maritime industry leads to such exciting diverse areas of employment for young people, it is very important they have the chance to fully understand the potential locally, regionally and in the global market."
Companies interested in participating should contact Jen Smith at the Education Business Partnership Kent on 01843 609649 or e-mail jen.smith@ebpkent.co.uk.
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