Warsash alumni experience the future of maritime training

Members of the Warsash Association, who began their training at Warsash between 1969 and 1971, visited the world-renowned school to tour the facilities used by current cadets and find out more about the technology, equipment and teaching methods shaping maritime education today.

Current cadets led tours of the facilities, including the UK's largest and most sophisticated maritime simulation centre and the SMART Centre, a cutting-edge learning and training facility opened by HRH The Princess Royal earlier this year.

Speaking after the visit, David Fairweather, a former Warsash cadet who trained at the school between 1969 and 1975 before building a career in the maritime industry, said:

"We expected the training to be of a high standard, but I think we were all genuinely blown away by both the quality of the facilities and the expertise of the people delivering the training.

"It's inspiring to see the variety of experiences cadets now receive and the way they are being prepared for the future requirements of the industry."

During the visit, discussions focused on the changing nature of maritime education, from advances in simulation technology and engineering systems to the continued importance of practical seamanship skills.

Reflecting on the differences between maritime training past and present, David said, "One of the biggest changes is the focus on health and safety. When I first went to sea, standards were very different. Today, cadets receive professional training in an environment that places safety at its heart, which is reassuring for both students and their families."

The tour also highlighted how traditional maritime skills remain central to training programmes, alongside the use of modern technology designed to replicate real-world operating environments.

Matt Stewart, Deputy Dean for Education at Warsash Maritime School, said, "It's been fantastic to welcome members of the Warsash Association onto campus. We are incredibly proud of our heritage and the thousands of students who have trained with us over the decades.

"For many of our visitors, it was their first opportunity to see the facilities we now have at East Park Terrace. The visit provided a chance to reflect on how far maritime education has come while also looking ahead to the future of the industry.

"Technology and simulation have transformed the way we prepare cadets for life at sea, but many of the practical seamanship and engineering skills that have always been at the heart of maritime training remain just as important today."

Founded in 1935 as the School of Navigation, Warsash Maritime School has trained generations of seafarers and maritime professionals. It continues to support the industry through innovative education and research, specialist facilities and strong links with employers across the global maritime sector.