Published on: 07 March 2024
Chief Executive Officer, Andrea Frabetti, visits the college to commemorate the benchmark set by Sunseeker’s Learning and Development team in employee training.
Sunseeker commemorates the one year anniversary of the Sunseeker Skills Academy, marking a year of outstanding achievement in fostering boatbuilding talent and excellence.
Launched as a new training programme to address a national skills shortage, the Sunseeker Skills Academy has become a blueprint in fast-track training schemes. Developed in partnership with Bournemouth and Poole College, the initiative introduces aspiring boatbuilders to five boatbuilding specialisms over 15 months. The structured 12-week training curriculum is delivered by both college faculty and Sunseeker experts. Upon completion of the training course, newly qualified boatbuilders integrate into the shipyards where they receive further practical training and guidance. With a focus on immersive learning in a bespoke environment, trainees are equipped with the skills and expertise essential for success in the shipyards.
Reflecting on the academy’s impact, Sunseeker Chief Executive Officer, Andrea Frabetti, said: “The Sunseeker Skills Academy stands as a testament to our commitment to nurturing talent and advancing excellence in boatbuilding. Our partnership with Bournemouth and Poole College has not only empowered over 100 newly trained employees but has also significantly enhanced shipyard productivity and efficiency.”
In its inaugural year, the academy has emerged as a beacon of collaboration, uniting Sunseeker as a pivotal employer in Dorset with a college dedicated to skills delivery in the local area. This milestone further solidifies the academy’s position as an integral component of Sunseeker’s robust workforce development strategy.
Frabetti further emphasised, “The confidence and skills displayed by our trainee employees underscore the effectiveness of the Sunseeker Skills Academy in preparing individuals for the rigours of the boatbuilding industry. We are immensely proud of their achievements and grateful to the lecturers and staff whose dedication has made this program a resounding success.”
Phil Sayles, Principal of Bournemouth and Poole College, added: “Bournemouth and Poole College has two complementary goals: to train people so they can do better jobs, build careers and have better lives; and to work with employers to help them build the skilled workforces they need for business success. Together, these goals will make our area and country more prosperous and happier. The Sunseeker Skills Academy and the rest of our work with this world-class company is a source of great pride for us.”
With its first year a resounding success, the Sunseeker Skills Academy reaffirms its commitment to shaping the future of boatbuilding excellence, setting a standard of excellence for the maritime industry.
