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Isle of Wight students inspired by London Boat Show

Friday, January 26, 2007

Island students had their horizons expanded during a trip to the London Boat Show, held at Excell last week. A group of six students and staff from the Isle of Wight College visited the world famous Boat Show to find out about some of the amazing opportunities open to them in the marine industry and travel and tourism sectors. They viewed the show on the opening day and as well as visiting some of the hundreds of displays were able to meet Olympic Gold Medallists Shirley Robertson and Ben Ainsley.

The trip was made possible as part of the Isle of Wight Economic Partnership’s Inspire project which aims to inspire young people and show them what they can achieve with a bit of ambition and hard work. IWEP is working closely with the Isle of Wight College to add eye-opening experiences to existing college courses to encourage students to reach for their goals and produce a highly skilled, dynamic workforce to continue the economic growth the Island has seen during recent years.

Janet Stevens, Head of Workforce Development at the Isle of Wight College said, “This type of experience is so valuable for the students – they get to see first hand the types of areas they could be working in – it really gives them something to aim for.” She continued, “The trip gave the students the opportunity to enhance their courses by linking to industry and business – it had a huge impact on them.”
Janet Stevens added, “The students would like to thank the Isle of Wight Economic Partnership for allowing them the opportunity to experience the London Boat Show which was both enjoyable and educational and gave them another insight to where their careers could take them.”

Mike King, Managing Director of the IWEP said, “a talented and positive workforce is essential for the Island economy – we need to make sure our young people are reaching out for their goals, and we have to show them what is possible if they work hard and want it enough”

“The Isle of Wight Economic Partnership is responsible for driving forward the Island’s economy. One of the key areas for economic success is improving productivity and that means ensuring there is a good supply of talented, flexible people in our local businesses.”

IWEP are planning similar projects in the future with the Isle of Wight College and are in discussions with other organisations such as the Isle of Wight Chamber of Commerce’s Young Chamber and Platform One on projects which will give young people an insight into the possibilities open to them.