Scottish maritime schools programme charts a course for Glasgow pupils

Young people in Glasgow got hands-on experience of life in the maritime sector as the nationwide Maritime Pathways programme returned for a second year.

Delivered by the Scottish Maritime Cluster, the programme introduces pupils to the breadth of careers available across Scotland’s maritime industry through practical activities, interactive learning and direct engagement with industry professionals.

Maritime Pathways has secured funding from the Cluster’s members, matched by a £75,000 funding commitment from the Scottish Government, through Transport Scotland, over the next three years. The £25,000 annual contribution will match-fund the programme, helping Scottish Maritime Cluster and its industry partners build on the foundations established during a successful first year.

As part of this year’s programme, Maritime Pathways headed to City of Glasgow College, where over 100 S3 pupils from schools across the city navigated ship simulators, engaged in VR welding challenges and took part in diving and explosive ordinance disposal drills delivered by the Royal Navy.

Tom Arthur, Minister for Business and Fair Work, attended the event to speak with local businesses and students about accessible careers in the sector. He joined pupils in meeting representatives from Royal Navy, CMAL, Dales Marine Services, Malin Group, Onboard Maritime, Clyde Marine Training, Yattle, City of Glasgow College, BAE Systems, Belcan and Tymor Marine, who shared insights into their work and the different routes into maritime careers.

Maritime Pathways will deliver a total of 14 events across Scotland this year, with support from Developing the Young Workforce (DYW). The programme aims to inform and inspire pupils – many of whom may never have considered a future in the sector.

Kevin Hobbs, chair of Scottish Maritime Cluster and chief executive officer at CMAL, said: “Last year’s pilot demonstrated the impact that direct exposure to industry can have on young people as they begin thinking about their futures.

“One of the most encouraging outcomes has been hearing from pupils who discovered an interest they didn’t know they had, with some going on to take their first steps towards a career because of one of our events. That shows the difference programmes like this can make and it’s encouraging to see that success recognised through the funding committed to support the programme’s future.

“For communities such as Glasgow, maritime is part of everyday life, but young people may not always be aware of the variety of careers behind it. By connecting pupils with people working across the industry, we want to show them the many different routes into the sector and the opportunities available to them.”

Stephen Flynn, Cabinet Secretary for economy, tourism and transport said: “I am pleased that the Scottish Government is providing £75,000 over 3 years to help encourage young people into hugely rewarding maritime careers.

“A diverse maritime and shipping sector plays a vital role in Scotland’s economy. This funding will go towards maritime education and resources, facilitating a maritime toolkit and schools visits throughout Scotland to support the sector’s continued success.”

Alison McRae, senior director at Glasgow Chamber of Commerce and Co-Chair of the Glasgow Employment and Skills Board, said: “The maritime sector has shaped Glasgow for generations, and it has a real part to play in the city’s economic future.

“Bringing over 100 pupils from across the city region together with businesses in the Scottish Maritime Cluster provides an important opportunity to give young people early insight into the industry and the breadth of career pathways available to them. If the sector is going to find the talent it needs to meet its ambitions, we have to reach young people early and give them meaningful opportunities to engage with industry.”

With over 95% of the UK’s imports and exports transported by sea, the maritime sector is a cornerstone of the national economy and one that’s constantly evolving. By bringing the sector into the classroom – and into pupils’ hands – Maritime Pathways aims to create a wave of new interest in an industry central to Scotland’s future.

Glasgow schools in attendance included: Lourdes Secondary School; Bannerman High School; Springburn Academy; Cleveden Secondary School; St Rochs Secondary School; St Margaret Mary’s Secondary School; Hyndland Secondary School; and Clydeview Academy.