Marine School opens doors to aspiring seafarers

A North East-based marine school is opening its doors to aspiring seafarers.

South Shields Marine School, the longest operating marine training college in the world, has announced its Careers at Sea Open Day on Saturday, November 8. 

The event will run from 10am to 2pm at the school’s multi-million-pound training facility, offering students, parents and visitors the chance to explore career opportunities across the maritime industry.

Ten companies have already confirmed attendance, including Stena Line, Royal Fleet Auxiliary, MSC Cruises, Princess Cruises, Carnival, BP and leading training providers Ship Safe Training Group and Just Be Maritime. 

Current students, cadets and pre-cadets will be on hand to share their experiences and provide guidance to those considering a life at sea.

Principal Simon Ashton, who himself trained at the marine school after a successful career at sea, said: “Anyone considering a maritime career or is simply curious about what it would be like to work at sea can take this unique opportunity to meet our lecturers, explore different roles at sea, talk to leading shipping industry professionals about sponsorship and current roles, have a look around the school and even have a go on the ship and bridge simulators and gain valuable insights into the maritime world.

“School leavers, current sea cadets and anyone who would like a career change are welcome.”

The school also hosts the internationally recognised Marine Offshore Safety Training (MOST) centre, which offers courses in fire safety, medical first aid at sea, HUET, FOET, BOSIET and STCW certification. 

Its lifeboats are a familiar sight on the River Tyne, providing essential practical training for marine careers.

Founded in 1861, South Shields Marine School continues to attract students from across the UK and around the world. 

With a new student building set to open in 2027 overlooking the River Tyne, the school remains at the forefront of maritime education and training.

Jon Milner, head of school for nautical science at South Shields Marine School, added: “We aim to provide the best experience possible for students at our world class training school. 

“The shipping companies at our careers open morning include Carnival Cruises, the RFA (Royal Fleet Auxilliary), Just be Maritime and many more. 

“Their sponsorship means that students have a chance to study for a career at sea without student debt and travel the world while getting paid.”

Registration for the Open Day is open via the school’s website, here.

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