Harwich Haven Authority Secures Funding to Support Marine Apprentices

10 February 2025

Harwich Haven Authority’s marine apprenticeship programme has received a boost today with news that it has been awarded funding via the UK Chamber of Shipping.

The funding, totalling £18,000, comes from the Maritime Educational Foundation (MEF), a charitable organisation dedicated to supporting the shipping industry. It will be distributed in two phases: an initial £9,000 to support the training of three new Marine Apprentices, followed by an additional £9,000 upon the successful completion of their apprenticeship.

Gemma Mills, Talent Acquisition Advisor at Harwich Haven Authority, said

“At Harwich Haven Authority, we are passionate about nurturing talent and empowering the next generation of skilled professionals. This funding not only represents a fantastic opportunity for our apprentices but also underscores the importance of partnerships within the maritime sector. We look forward to seeing our newest apprentices grow into confident, capable members of the industry and take pride in supporting their journey.”

The awarded funds will be used to further enrich the already comprehensive apprenticeship programme, including covering the cost of additional training with apprenticeship provider SeaRegs, so apprentices are commercially endorsed to work in the marine industry when they complete their programme.

Pilot Launch Service Manager, Mark Avenell, commented

“This funding will enable us to provide our apprentices with the essential tools and resources needed to develop their skills and confidence in a real-world maritime environment. Investing in their training ensures they receive the best possible foundation for a successful career in the industry.

“Securing this funding further reinforces Harwich Haven Authority’s commitment to fostering talent and supporting the UK’s maritime workforce.”

Harwich Haven Authority currently has eight apprentices going through the programme, including three who joined in summer 2024.

As part of the Marine Apprenticeship at Harwich Haven Authority, recruits regularly visit other internal departments, such as Marine Engineering, and external organisations within the sector, for example Trinity House, Svitzer and Boskalis, which expands their knowledge of other roles and improves their networking abilities.

Managed by the Merchant Navy Training Board, MEF is committed to excellence in seafarer training, providing financial support to initiatives that enhance maritime education and skills development.

As part of National Apprenticeship Week, which is held across the UK from the 10 – 14 February 2025, Harwich Haven Authority have produced a short film that showcases apprentices from their 2024 intake. The film is a celebration of the valuable contribution apprentices make throughout the Authority and features many of our operational departments.

Watch the final film below or online with closed captions here.