Year 8 pupils from two Pembrokeshire secondary schools have gained insight into potential career opportunities linked to the Milford Haven Waterway through a series of educational boat trips.
The Port of Milford Haven partnered with Pembrokeshire Coastal Forum to provide over 200 young people from Pembroke’s Ysgol Harri Tudur and Milford Haven School the chance to learn from industry professionals while exploring the water between the Cleddau Bridge and Stack Rock.
During the trips, representatives from a range of organisations, including Dragon LNG, Ledwood, the Port of Milford Haven, Pembrokeshire Coastal Forum and Pembrokeshire SAC, shared their career journeys and offered advice on pathways into roles on and around the Waterway. The initiative was designed to support pupils as they begin considering their future subject choices ahead of Year 9. A trip was also arranged for Year 10 pupils from Milford Haven School who are studying Engineering.
Anna Malloy, Communications and Marketing Director at the Port of Milford Haven, explained the objective behind this new initiative, commenting:
“The Milford Haven Waterway supports a diverse range of industries and offers a wealth of career opportunities, many of which young people may not be aware of. Through this project, pupils had the chance to experience the Waterway from a unique perspective and hear directly from professionals whose work contributes to a thriving local economy that reaches global markets.
“By showcasing the breadth of careers available here we hope to inspire young people to consider the exciting opportunities that exist here in Pembrokeshire and to broaden their understanding of the industries that help shape our region.”
Pembrokeshire Coastal Forum facilitated the trips. Tom Luddington, Coastal Stakeholder Manager, said “Hearing directly from people employed in local businesses and conservation along the Waterway, and having them share their knowledge and expertise was an impactful and innovative way to inspire pupils about potential future careers. Topics included marine renewable energy, tourism, conservation, skippering, and working in the energy sector."
The project forms part of the Port of Milford Haven’s educational engagement programme to raise awareness of local career pathways and inspire the next generation to explore opportunities within Pembrokeshire’s growing maritime, industrial and environmental sectors.