A programme aimed at giving young people hands-on experience for careers on the water is set to return next year and is looking for participants.

The Endeavour Maritime Career Springboard Programme, a collaboration between Endeavour and Bermuda College, offers Bermudians aged 16 and older a chance to prepare themselves for positions in the maritime sector.

Karen Smith, programme co-ordinator for Bermuda College’s Athora Division of Professional and Career Education, said: “Bermuda College and Endeavour share a goal to support Bermuda’s youth through training and education that benefits their lifelong growth and development.

“Since our partnership started in 2018, 64 Bermudians aged 16 to 35 years old have completed this unique career development programme, and over 70 per cent of our Springboard alumni are now working in the maritime industry, including some who have joined the Endeavour team as instructors.”

The 2024 session of the seven-week programme is scheduled to set sail on January 8 and conclude on February 23.

No previous sailing experience is necessary, however, to be considered. Candidates must be available to commit for the duration of the programme, as well as exhibit a positive attitude, open-mindedness and a strong willingness to learn.

Spaces in the programme are limited, and candidates are invited to submit a cover letter outlining their interest in the programme along with their resume via e-mail to education@endeavour.bm by 5pm on November 3.

Endeavour is accredited by the Royal Yachting Association, which allows the charity to offer courses towards achieving a range of qualifications.

Jennifer Pitcher, Endeavour’s executive director, added: “We are grateful for the collective support from Endeavour’s donors, partners and supporters that enables us to make a positive difference in diverse young lives across our island home through Endeavour’s programmes.

“We are deeply thankful for the generous support from Endeavour’s lead founding partner, Orbis, along with Arch Capital Group, BF&M Limited, PwC Bermuda and Centennial Bermuda Foundation, for their support of Endeavour’s Maritime Springboard Programme, which enables us to ensure that youth of all backgrounds across Bermuda are able to access this programme and benefit from it for years to come.”