Ocean Village Marina Initiative Supports 200 Southampton Youth Thro...
09/12/2025 — Southampton · 3 min read
Ocean Village Marina Initiative Supports 200 Southampton Youth Through Skills Program
An initiative at Ocean Village Marina in Southampton is providing 200 local youth with practical skills and employment opportunities through a comprehensive training program. Launched on 9th December 2025, the programme aims to equip young people with the necessary skills for careers in the maritime and hospitality industries, backed by a £150,000 investment.
Ocean Village Marina in Southampton has launched an initiative designed to provide practical training and employment opportunities to 200 local youth. Starting on 9th December 2025, the program focuses on equipping participants with skills relevant to maritime and hospitality sectors. Supported by a £150,000 investment from local businesses and industry leaders, the initiative aims to address youth unemployment in the city and foster economic growth.
The program offers a blend of classroom instruction and hands-on experience, focusing on skills such as sailing, customer service, and culinary arts. Participants will engage in a structured curriculum over a six-month period, with guidance from industry professionals. According to the program coordinator, the initiative is expected to result in at least 150 young people securing employment within the next year. "Our goal is to create a pipeline of skilled workers ready to fill critical roles in Southampton's maritime and hospitality sectors," said the coordinator.
Programme Details
The training programme at Ocean Village Marina is open to Southampton residents aged 16 to 24. Participants will receive free tuition and materials, funded by the programme's £150,000 budget. The curriculum includes modules on sailing techniques, maritime safety, hospitality management, and culinary skills, taught by experienced professionals from each industry.
Local businesses such as Southampton Sailing Club and the Ocean Village Hotel Group are providing mentoring and internship opportunities, further enhancing the practical experience for participants. "Before joining this program, I had no direction," shared participant Emily Johnson. "Now, I am learning valuable skills and have already lined up an internship at a local restaurant."
Interested individuals can apply through the Ocean Village Marina website or via email at training@oceanvillagemarina.co.uk. Applications are open until 15th January 2026, with a selection process that prioritises applicants from disadvantaged backgrounds.
Measurable Outcomes
The initiative at Ocean Village Marina is set to deliver concrete results within its initial six-month period. The program aims to achieve a 75% employment rate among graduates, with anticipated placements in local marinas, hotels, and restaurants. The £150,000 funding covers all training costs, ensuring accessibility for participants regardless of financial status.
Over the next year, the program expects to facilitate over 10,000 hours of training and work experience opportunities. In addition, it plans to involve over 30 local businesses in providing mentorship and employment opportunities. "This program is not just about training; it's about opening doors for young people in our community," said the coordinator.
The next steps involve ongoing monitoring of participant progress and job placement rates. Program organisers will conduct follow-up surveys with graduates to measure long-term impact on employment and career advancement. The initiative's success will be evaluated based on employment rates, participant satisfaction, and feedback from partnering businesses.
Story inspired by reporting from The Guardian.