A new programme has been launched in Falmouth to give school-aged children an exciting opportunity to study engineering at Falmouth Marine School (FMS) in partnership with The Crown Estate. 

The pioneering Pre-16 Engineering programme, believed to be among the first of its kind in the UK, was officially unveiled at the Falmouth campus of The Cornwall College Group (TCCG) with course learners, parents and staff from Helston Community College in attendance. 

Commenting on this “ground-breaking” programme, Steve Taylor, head of Falmouth Marine School said: “This programme, aimed for children under the age of 16, will provide early exposure to the engineering and renewable energy sectors, inspiring the next generation of innovative thinkers.” 

“By engaging students at an early age, we are not only preparing them for future career opportunities but also contributing to the development of a highly skilled workforce essential for the region’s economic growth and sustainability,” Steve added. 

Falmouth Marine School is working in close collaboration with The Crown Estate to help build skilled local workforces to support the delivery of the UK’s energy transition, alongside other initiatives including its marine internship programme and recent partnership with the Sea Ranger Service. 

Industry representatives from leading businesses including Celtic Sea Power, Pendennis Shipyard, Mylor Harbour, IOS Steamship Group, Simply Blue Group, Falmouth Harbour, Morwind, Blue Abyss and Careers Hub, attended the official launch event and supported the initiative at FMS. 

Pre-16 Engineering at Falmouth Marine School, parents supporting and congratulating students
Pre-16 Engineering at Falmouth Marine School, parents supporting and congratulating students (Submitted)

The evening consisted of a full tour of Falmouth Marine School’s state-of-the-art facilities, engaging talks from industry representatives and the celebration of student achievements so far, with each pupil collecting their uniforms which were provided by The Crown Estate. 

Deborah Clark, Sustainability Director at The Crown Estate, said: “We’re delighted to work in partnership with The Cornwall College Group to launch this exciting programme with Falmouth Marine School. The Celtic Sea is set to play an important role in driving the UK’s energy transition and The Crown Estate is committed to working with communities to ensure future generations can make the most of the opportunities marine energy will bring.” 

 “This engineering programme will help to raise awareness and understanding among the next generation of the exciting opportunities available in offshore wind and the renewable energy sector more broadly, helping them be part of the future workforce we need to deliver the UK’s net zero ambitions. We hope the course will become a proof of concept for what can be achieved by inspiring young people at this critical stage of their education journey.” 

Mr Alex Lingard, head of Helston Community College, added: “We’re thrilled to see our enthusiastic students participating in this innovative programme, getting invaluable hands-on experience and a clear pathway to careers in the engineering and renewable energy industries. The passion and engagement from the students have been tremendous, and we look forward to seeing the positive impact the programme at Falmouth Marine School will have on their futures.” 

The first cohort of year 10 students will start their course from this September. 

To find out more about courses available at the Top FE College for education and training in Cornwall, visit falmouthmarineschool.ac.uk