By Isle of Wight Observer
School-children across the Island are being invited to the Royal Yacht Squadron to discover the wide range of careers available in the maritime sector.
The Royal Yacht Squadron Foundation Maritime Careers Fair will be held at the Castle, on the Parade in Cowes, on Thursday, October 1, from 10am to 4pm.
Schools have been encouraged to send as many pupils as possible throughout the day, with younger children able to gain ideas and inspiration, and older students receiving more specific careers advice.
A broad range of organisations will showcase the diversity of opportunities available in the maritime industry, including the Royal Navy and BAE, alongside boatbuilders, engineers, cruise and ferry operators, photographers, and training establishments.
Young people will also have the opportunity to explore a variety of workboats and yachts, as well as HMS Medusa, in the RYS Haven.
This year’s event will also include advice on interview skills, one-to-one guidance on students’ work styles and aptitudes, and a prize competition.
James Stevens, chairman of the Foundation, said: “We know there are many young Islanders who are simply unaware of the maritime careers that are available to them, and what their earnings might be. We want to change that.”
The Foundation was established in 2015 to mark the bicentenary of the Royal Yacht Squadron and help young Islanders develop the skills and confidence to pursue maritime careers.
Since then, it has awarded more than £500,000 in grants supporting careers ranging from marine engineering to superyacht crew positions, funded entirely by RYS members.
