Warsash Maritime School cements new academic partnership

Announced at the Isle of Man Maritime Conference on Thursday 16 July, the partnership creates ties between Warsash and one of the maritime sector’s most influential jurisdictions. It also supports closer collaboration with the Island’s growing superyacht industry and wider maritime community.

The Isle of Man is home to a globally recognised ship registry, with a strong network of maritime employers and a rapidly expanding superyacht sector, supported by Isle of Man Maritime. As an approved Academic Partner, young people form the Isle of Man will have the opportunity to become sponsored cadets, while employers will be able to explore new approaches to developing future maritime talent through the Yacht Design and Maritime Business curriculum areas.

The collaboration will also create opportunities to design tailored training programmes, expand digital learning provision and support career progression across both the commercial and superyacht sectors. Working closely with Isle of Man Maritime, Warsash aims to help develop a skilled workforce equipped to meet the changing needs of the global maritime industry.

Matthew Stewart, Deputy Dean of Education for Warsash Maritime School represented Southampton Solent University at the conference, contributing to the Skills and Seafarers panel and leading a workshop session. During his presentation, he highlighted Solent University and Warsash Maritime School’s range of maritime education and training expertise, with a focus on seafarer development, and shoreside maritime opportunities which are available on the Isle of Man.

Following the announcement, Kunal Anand, Director of Warsash Maritime School said, “The Isle of Man is a significant centre of maritime excellence, with a strong commercial shipping sector and a rapidly growing superyacht community. Becoming an Approved Academic Partner strengthens our relationship with the Island and creates exciting opportunities for future cadets and maritime professionals. We look forward to working closely with employers and industry partners to help develop the skills and talent needed for the future of the sector.”

Capt. Lee Clarke, Managing Director of Isle of Man Maritime said, “We are delighted to be partnering with Warsash Maritime School as we continue to invest in the future of our maritime industry. Our Manx Cadet Programme goes from strength to strength, and we are incredibly proud to be sending our next generation of Manx cadets to one of the world’s leading maritime training institutions. This partnership reflects our commitment to developing exceptional talent, creating world-class career opportunities, and ensuring the Isle of Man remains at the forefront of maritime excellence both at sea and ashore for generations to come.”