Sunseeker International has selected The Bournemouth & Poole College as its education partner for the new Marine Technology Centre at its Poole campuses in Dorset.
The college will open a new Marine Technology Centre by this September this year. There will be upwards of 70 places available for Sunseeker apprentices and capacity for over 250 at the new dedicated marine training facility, which will cover all aspects of the industry at both a craft and higher technical level.
Alex Bowman, Sunseeker Training Manager, explained the philosophy behind the partnership. "In order to compete in a global market, we need to ensure that our workforce is equipped with all the essential skills and knowledge to gain competitive advantage. We believe a link with Bournemouth & Poole College will help us to ensure that we continue to grow and develop the education and training our apprentices receive both at a craft and a higher technical level".
"This new partnership also shows Sunseeker's commitment to the local community and the training of a new generation of boat builders."
Although the bulk of funding for the project is through Bournemouth & Poole College, Sunseeker is sourcing essential equipment from its own supply chain to train apprentice engineers and boat builders. Cummins Onan has agreed to supply a marine generator and Southampton-based CJR Propulsion is supplying boat propellers and shafts.
The Bournemouth & Poole College is funding the new centre with an investment of £250,000. They are also recruiting marine specialists to deliver the training in addition to support from Sunseeker.
Sarah Dandah, Director of Business Development at the British Marine Federation said "BMF is delighted to support Sunseeker in the development of its apprenticeship and training programmes. We work with our members to highlight the benefits that apprentices can bring to employers of all sizes. Bournemouth & Poole College's continuing development of facilities for Marine training is good news for Marine companies in Dorset and beyond."
Principal, Lawrence Vincent will unveil the new Marine Technology Centre in August. Existing Sunseeker apprentices, as well as new recruits, will get the centre off to a flying start.
Mr Vincent commented "This is a real coup for the college. With Sunseeker's help we can provide a unique learning experience to so many enthusiastic students, plus the prospect of a long term career in the leisure marine sector at the end of it.
Moving into marine engineering is a natural extension of the college's core areas of expertise as the places planned for the new Marine Technology Centre will cover all aspects of the leisure marine industry sector, from marine mechanical and electrical engineering, to traditional boat building carpentry.
The Bournemouth & Poole College is a large further education college with an Ofsted Grade 2 (good), with outstanding elements in employer engagement, and an excellent reputation for delivering training and apprenticeships to local businesses.
