A group of 14 teenaged schoolchildren have graduated from a seven-week course designed to prepare them for a life on the ocean.

The Springboard programme, run by sailing charity Endeavour with Bermuda College, was launched to equip youngsters aged 16 and up for maritime-related careers in places such as sailing clubs, watersports centres or on board ships.

Elijah Samuels, 17, from the Berkeley Institute, said: “My knowledge of the maritime industry has increased dramatically as a result of participating in the programme.

“I have learnt about new fields of work and different aspects of the maritime world. This experience has definitely grown and cemented my desire to become a superyacht captain.”

Others who have completed the course, which started five years ago, have had an interest in careers in ocean science, marine conservation, marine veterinarian science and professional sports events photography.

Tre’sure Nanette, who is home-schooled, added that she had been inspired by a talk by Mark Soares, of Bermuda Yacht Services.

She said: “I found Mr Soares' experiences and the stories he told about being able to work on a yacht and the steps he took to travel the world and coming back to Bermuda to be very interesting.

“I liked hearing about all of the opportunities available if you work with Bermuda Yacht Services or an opportunity with a superyacht.”

A total of 54 youngsters have finished the course since 2018.

Ruth Mello-Cann, 17, from the Berkeley Institute, said: “I have a better understanding of the different jobs and opportunities in the maritime industry.

“I have been able to gain more skills and make connections as a result of participating in the programme.

“This experience has given me an opportunity to gain qualifications to help me be successful in the maritime industry.”

The latest course was held in January and February and also included pupils from CedarBridge Academy and Saltus, with six of the students already assistant instructors with Endeavour.

The programme also includes Royal Yachting Association qualifications, as well as hands-on industry experience, skills development training and the chance to network with maritime professionals.

Other partners include the Bermuda Aquarium, Museum and Zoo, the Royal Bermuda Regiment Coastguard and the Bermuda Institute of Ocean Sciences.

James Harris, Endeavour’s operations manager, said: "We are inspired by the level of effort and commitment demonstrated by participants throughout the programme and we are proud of their accomplishments.

“We congratulate everyone for successfully completing the programme and wish them all the best in the future.”

Jennifer Pitcher, Endeavour’s development and partnerships manager, added: “We are proud to see many of the young Bermudians who have completed the programme in previous years return to share their success stories with the newest cohort and represent different maritime roles including water sports organisations, international sporting organisations, marine mechanics and boat yards, charter boats and so many more.

"Endeavour is honoured to partner with the Bermuda College and maritime organisations across Bermuda toward the continuing success of the programme. We are especially grateful for the support from Endeavour’s lead founding partner, Orbis, as well as Centennial Bermuda Foundation, and Ocean Wilsons Holdings Limited who are generously supporting this career development initiative that is creating positive outcomes for young Bermudians.”

The applications process for the next course, to be held in January next year, will open in the autumn.

For more information, e-mail education@endeavour.bm or visit www.endeavour.bm.