4th June 2025
South Devon College is leading the way in marine studies for school leavers, with its cutting-edge Marine Academy featuring technology that is the first and only of its kind in the South West, championing training and recruitment within the industry.
To further raise awareness of the marine sector within an up-and-coming workforce, the College held its successful annual Women into Marine event.
Held at the Marine Academy at Premier Marinas Noss on Dart, students from Churston Ferrers Grammar School, Brixham College, Paignton Academy, and Dawlish College were invited along to take part in taster sessions and fun challenges, to showcase the versatility of a career within the marine industry.
The day kicked off with an inspiring welcome from Holly Manvell, Founder of Clean Sailors, a not-for-profit group of international sailors who are raising awareness of ocean conservation and to set a new standard of clean sailing within the global sailing community.
Holly said: “It was a real privilege to speak with and work alongside such an engaged and capable group of young women at the Marine Academy. From chartwork and navigation to vessel simulation and electronics, their curiosity and confidence were truly inspiring.”
Rebecca Sanders, Lecturer in Marine at South Devon College, gave the welcome guest talk – having had a successful career in the Royal Navy, and experience on fishing boats, she is keen to inspire females into the industry.
The day was an exciting hands-on introduction to the world of maritime careers, with various challenges and skill-building projects, aimed at empowering young women to consider futures in the marine industry.
Activities included a navigation planning challenge and a hands-on electrical fault-finding exercise.
They also took to the helm of an RNLI Severn Class lifeboat in the BMT REMBRANDT state-of-the-art vessel simulator – tasked with coming alongside a 240m cruise ship in a variety of sea and weather conditions!
It was then time to take to the water for real, with a trip on the Marine Academy’s Botnia Targa 31 training vessel.
In her role as an ambassador for the sailing community, Holly Manvell was only too happy to contribute to the day. She said: “Creating opportunities like this is vital — not only to build skills, but to show what’s possible in the maritime world. When young women can see themselves in these roles, the industry becomes more inclusive, innovative, and resilient for the future.”
The marine industry is ever-evolving, and there are many more opportunities than ever available for women, from engineering and navigation to environmental sustainability and technology.
Rebecca Sanders agreed that the event is a great opportunity to break down stereotypes, showcase the incredible roles available, and inspire the next generation of female maritime professionals.
She commented: “As a lecturer with sea-going experience in the Royal Navy, I’ve seen first-hand the transformative power of maritime careers. Events like this are vital in opening young minds, especially girls, to the vast opportunities the maritime world offers.
“By sparking curiosity and breaking down outdated stereotypes, we not only inspire future leaders but also ensure a more diverse, innovative, and inclusive maritime industry. Encouraging girls to explore this field isn’t just important – it’s essential for the future of global maritime excellence.”
If you are interested in finding out more about our Marine courses, please visit Marine Archives – South Devon College
