A north-east college is offering students a unique insight into life in the Merchant Navy.
The Scottish Maritime Academy in Peterhead will host an open evening on Wednesday, May 27, for people who want to explore a career as a deck officer in the commercial shipping trade.
The academy is also preparing to launch a new course supported by Clyde Marine Training and the Ship Safe Training Group to prepare cadets for life at sea.
Last night, Linda Hope, the centre manager at the academy, said the new programme was an opportunity to attract up-and-coming locals into an “exciting industry”.
“Shipping companies are offering 12 sponsored training places for the first cohort,” she added.
“They are looking for bright, enthusiastic individuals who want to carve out a career for themselves within the merchant fleet.
“As a sponsored student a training allowance will be provided throughout the training period, which is based here in Peterhead, with time at sea.”
Deck officers are vital members of the vessels’ operational teams and are responsible for navigating boats safely around the world.
The open evening is aimed at school pupils, college students and individuals who may be considering a change of career.
The Scottish Maritime Academy, a centre of excellence of North East Scotland College, is one of a handful of colleges which will offer the new course.
It promises successful candidates a range of career options from cargo ships to vessels supporting the country’s oil and gas industries.
The open evening will run from 4pm-7pm.