Sailing charity Endeavour has joined forces with Bermuda College to attract young people into careers at sea.

A seven-week training programme has been launched by the Professional and Career Education division of the college.

The Endeavour maritime career Springboard programme has already attracted 11 people aged 16 to 34 for its intake in January.

Zico Smith, a 16-year-old CedarBridge Academy pupil who is a part of the Springboard crew, said: “I enjoyed learning how to solder during our visit to the Bermuda Institute of Ocean Sciences and learning about the different activities they do on the RV Atlantic Explorer when they go out.”

Sari Smith, a 16-year-old participant, added: “I enjoyed learning about all of the operations that are needed on the Spirit of Bermuda.

“I found charting and navigation aboard the Bermuda Sloop fascinating. It is amazing how precise the charts were.

“I also enjoyed learning about the different positions at the Department of Marine & Ports. It was eye opening as to how many maritime jobs are available.”

The course was designed to equip participants with the basic skills needed to get a head start in their careers.

Tia Tankard, Endeavour’s community engagement coordinator, said: “Endeavour is fortunate to partner with some of Bermuda’s leading maritime organisations who provide their vital support year after year to support the Endeavour Maritime Career Springboard Programme.

“Marine partners play an important role by offering interactive experiences to help young Bermudians gain an appreciation for the many different roles and opportunities in the maritime industry.”

The programme combines classroom work based on the Royal Yachting Association syllabus and hands on lessons on boats, including the RS Quest class of sailing boats.

Participants can gain internationally-recognised RYA qualifications in sailing, seamanship, navigation, powerboat operation, first aid, and marine radio operation.

Potential career paths include ferry and branch pilots at the Department of Marine & Ports Services, deckhands on charter boats or super yachts, boat mechanics, youth sailing instructor and watch leaders on the sail training ship Spirit of Bermuda.

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Kaitlin Noyes, the director of education and community engagement at BIOS, helped participants on the course to build and test robotic grabbers, similar those used by underwater robots to collect sealife or geological samples.

Ms Noyes said BIOS offered the course members “exposure to career pathways in research institutions, as well as information about opportunities including internships at the Institute through the Bermuda Programme”.

Karen Smith, Bermuda College’s professional and career education coordinator, said: “Bermuda College is thrilled to continue this partnership with Endeavour towards our shared vision to create learning opportunities for Bermuda’s youth that better prepare them for their futures.”

For more information, visit www.endeavour.bm.