Thames apprentice heads to sea

The high seas beckon for Port of London Authority (PLA) apprentice, Scarlett Barnett-Smith, who is embarking on the next stage of her career - a cadetship at Warsash Maritime School, part of Solent University.

After two years working on the Thames as a marine services apprentice with the PLA, Scarlett (20) from Gillingham, is looking forward to starting her HND Nautical Science course in Southampton; her induction and first lectures are being held online, due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

The PLA and the maritime charity Trinity House are co-sponsoring Scarlett’s cadetship.

Scarlett said: “I have enjoyed every single second of my time working on the Thames and can thoroughly recommend an apprenticeship to any school leaver considering their career options in National Apprenticeship Week.

“Over the past two years, I have learned so much from so many people across the whole river community.

“It has been the perfect preparation for this next phase in my career, which I hope will one day lead me to be a navigational river pilot back on the Thames.

“I grew up by the river and have always loved being on the water. It’s a part of me.

“I am going to miss all my PLA friends tremendously. Through the wonders of modern technology, I will definitely be keeping them posted about my travels around the world.

“I will always be grateful to the PLA for the opportunity they have given me to fulfil my dream.”

In December, Scarlett joined fellow PLA trainees Ted Jones, Jeremie Dousselin and Joe Thompson in securing a coveted boatmasters’ licence (BML), through the Thames Skills Academy.

For the next three years she will be focused on securing her ‘Officer of the Watch’ unlimited certificate of competency, a vital passport to a long-term career a qualified mariner around the globe.

Her land-based studies - including chartwork and tides, ship stability, meteorology, marine law and vessel maintenance – will be interspersed with practical experience navigating the oceans of the world.

Rachel De Bont, PLA marine training officer, who has mentored Scarlett for the past two years, said: “To prosper as a maritime trading nation, the UK desperately needs more young people like Scarlett – particularly more women - to acquire the qualifications and experience required for a career afloat.

“Her personality and commitment have impressed all of us at the PLA since she started with us, and we wish her well for this exciting new chapter of her life.”

Captain Ian McNaught, deputy master of Trinity House, said: "We are proud to be a major supporter of maritime skills and training. Our Merchant Navy Scholarship scheme takes in 50 cadets every year, and our work as a General Lighthouse Authority provides a number of shore-based apprenticeships. We believe that the education that we offer with our training partners Chiltern Maritime will set up young people, like Scarlett, with not only the qualifications, but the experiences and outlook they need for a bright career in the maritime sector.

“I wish Scarlett and all of our cadets the very best of luck."