Harwich Haven Authority hosts its first Port Open Day

19 October 2022

Harwich Haven Authority delighted students from the Harwich and Dovercourt School with a unique behind the scenes tour of its operations on Friday 14 October.

The students, aged between 13-15 years-old, had the opportunity to learn more about the role of the Harbour Authority and explore career opportunities both within Harwich Haven Authority and the wider ports sector.

Celebrating the UK-wide Maritime UK Week, the initiative was focused on operational roles within Vessel Traffic Services, Marine Pilotage, Marine Support, Marine Engineering and Pilot Launch Services.

“As a local employer we were delighted to throw open our doors and welcome students from the Harwich and Dovercourt School,” says Neil Glendinning, CEO, Harwich Haven Authority.

“Many of our employees live in the area and we’re always keen to recruit from within the local community if we can. Our Open Day, we believe, provided the students with a good insight into both the role of the Harbour Authority and gave them a flavour of the types of career opportunities we offer.

“It was a thoroughly enjoyable day, the students behaved impeccably, and I very much hope that the visit might have inspired some of students to consider a career in the ports or wider maritime industry.”

“This was a great chance for our pupils and they thoroughly enjoyed the visit,” said Simon Garnham, Senior Assistant Head at the Harwich and Dovercourt High School.

“Different students spoke of different highlights.  Everyone loved going on the water and getting close to the enormous container vessels.  Many spoke of their excitement at being in the Vessel Traffic Services control room.  Learning about all the highly skilled engineering requirements (and having the chance to inflate a lifejacket) was great.

“It was especially good to remind students of the wide range of maritime opportunities on our doorstep and to strengthen the school’s relationship with Harwich Haven Authority.