British Marine has launched a new digital learning platform aimed at making industry-led training more accessible to individuals and businesses across the leisure marine sector.
The British Marine Training Academy debuted on the new British Marine Training Stand at the Southampton International Boat Show, alongside representatives from official course partner Clegg Gifford and founding partners Haven Knox-Johnston Commercial, part of Howden; Skandinavian Agency Services S.A.C Marine Surveyors; Aqueduct Marina; and Bartons Solicitors.
The launch followed strong interest during the opening days of the show, with visitors to the Training Stand keen to learn more about the platform, explore its first course, and discuss the future training needs of their businesses and teams.
The Academy combines flexible online learning with knowledge and expertise drawn from across the sector. Its growing programme of courses is designed to offer practical, relevant training for people entering the industry, developing their careers, or looking to strengthen their existing skills and knowledge.
Manj Mahey, Head of Training at British Marine, said: "It has been fantastic to officially launch the British Marine Training Academy here at the Southampton International Boat Show and to see the level of interest it has already generated on the Training Stand."
"We have spoken to businesses looking for more effective ways to introduce new employees to the industry, as well as individuals keen to build their knowledge and progress their careers. That response reinforces exactly why the Academy is needed."
"Our aim is to provide trusted, flexible and genuinely useful learning shaped by the industry for the industry. This launch is only the beginning, and we look forward to working with our members, partners and the wider sector to continue developing the Academy's course offering."
The Academy was developed with the support of official course partner Clegg Gifford, together with its four founding partners, whose early backing, investment, and industry insight played an important role in bringing the platform to life.
Toby Clegg, CEO, Clegg Gifford, said: "Businesses that invest in knowledge and professional development are better equipped to manage risk, support their people and build for the future. That is why Clegg Gifford is proud to be the official course partner of the British Marine Training Academy, supporting the development of accessible, industry-relevant learning that will benefit individuals and businesses across the marine sector."
The launch also marked the release of the Academy's first online course, Introduction to the Marine World. Created for people new to the leisure marine industry or preparing to join it, the course offers an overview of the sector for new starters, career changers, apprentices, trainees, and early-career employees, as well as people in non-technical roles such as finance, HR, marketing, sales, administration, and customer service. No previous marine industry or boating experience is required.
Taking approximately two hours to complete, the course explores how the leisure marine industry is structured, introduces different types of boats and commonly used marine terminology, and covers regulation, safe working, and professional behaviour. It also helps learners understand leisure marine customers, their expectations, and the opportunities available to develop their knowledge and careers.
Created by British Marine with contributions from industry experts, the course is available from £99 (ex. VAT), with discounted Academy course rates available to British Marine members.
Further courses are already in development, with the Academy set to cover subjects including technical skills, compliance, leadership, professional development, innovation, and the future challenges facing the marine industry. Businesses and individuals are being encouraged to share their training needs and suggest subjects they would like to see included as the course portfolio grows.
Mahey added: "The Academy has been designed to develop alongside the industry. We want businesses and learners to tell us where they need support so we can create courses that respond directly to the skills, knowledge and challenges that matter to them."
