South Shields Marine School, the world’s oldest maritime training institution, is throwing open its doors to anyone curious about a life at sea. With the maritime industry facing a skills gap and an aging workforce, the school’s principal, Simon Ashton, is on a mission to attract fresh talent. “Anyone considering a maritime career or is simply curious about what it would be like to work at sea can take this opportunity,” he says.
The Careers at Sea Open Day, taking place on November 8, is more than just a recruitment drive—it’s a hands-on showcase of what a maritime career can offer. Visitors will get a chance to meet industry professionals, explore different roles, and even test their skills on the school’s ship and bridge simulators. “We want people to leave with a clear picture of what a career at sea looks like,” Ashton says.
The school isn’t just targeting school leavers. It’s also reaching out to sea cadets, career changers, and anyone with an interest in maritime. Current students and cadets will be on hand to share their experiences, offering a raw, unfiltered look at life at sea. “They’ll tell you the good, the bad, and the downright challenging,” Ashton admits. “But they’ll also show you why they love it.”
The open day isn’t just about inspiration—it’s about opportunity. Companies like Stena Line, MSC Cruises, P&O Cruises, and BP will be there, ready to talk about sponsorships and current roles. For many students, these sponsorships mean studying without debt while getting paid to travel the world. “That’s a pretty compelling offer,” says Jon Milner, head of the School for Nautical Science.
But why is this event so important right now? The maritime industry is at a crossroads. With an aging workforce and a growing demand for skilled seafarers, the need for fresh talent has never been greater. The school’s open day is a chance to bridge that gap, showing prospective students that a career at sea isn’t just about tradition—it’s about innovation, technology, and global opportunity.
The school itself is a testament to that. Founded in 1861, it’s not just clinging to the past—it’s shaping the future. From fire training to medical first aid at sea, the school offers courses that prepare students for the realities of modern maritime work. And with industry leaders like Ship Safe Training Group and Just Be Maritime involved, the open day is a chance to see how education and industry are working together to create the next generation of seafarers.
So, whether you’re a school leaver, a career changer, or just curious, South Shields Marine School is inviting you to dive in. The maritime industry isn’t just waiting for you—it’s actively recruiting. And with events like this, it’s clear that the future of shipping isn’t just about ships and the sea—it’s about people.