Livery Schools Link Showcase 2017
March 20 saw the 2017 Livery Schools Link Showcase event at the Guildhall with 30 very diverse livery companies attracting great interest from around 600 students (mainly 15/16 year olds) and 60+ teachers from over 30 schools. Each livery company was in attendance to showcase the industry they represent and the opportunities for careers to the young people deciding on their futures. The Shipwrights’ stall was manned by Paul Harris and London Nautical School’s Head of Nautical Studies, Mr James Bullar who kindly arranged for a ship helming simulator to be on hand for the students to test their skills. It was fantastic to see students from London Nautical School, George Green’s School and many others attempt to land a pilot on an incoming container ship and navigate a fast passenger ferry across the Solent.
Samples of the materials used in the boat and ship building industry were on display for the students to see and handle, with explanations on what they are and how they are used. Some even had a go at “building” a boat from their choice of material – wood, aluminium or a composite material. Many of the attendees left the Guildhall with a bit more of an understanding of the importance of the marine and maritime industry to the UK and how they can be a part of it.
Many thanks to the London Nautical School for their great assistance with manning the simulator and to the Clerk for helping to build and breakdown the stall. Many thanks also to the organisers of the day, the Livery Schools Link, Lis Goodwin, the chairman, and Peter Cave for a such a great environment to showcase opportunities in our industry to the next generation. For more information on the event and to find out more about the LSL and the opportunities that exist through them to volunteer in education please have a look at their website www.liveryschoolslink.co.uk