21st, January 2014

Setting Sail On New Programme Inspired by Prince

Twelve youngsters from 6 local schools were the first to embark this week on a new after school programme inspired by His Royal Highness The Prince of Wales.

News and PR, Programmes

Run by The High Tide Foundation, a charity created and driven by port-related businesses to provide opportunities for the young people of Teesside, the High Tide Cadet programme has been modelled on a scheme set up by Tata Steel following Prince Charles’s visit to Redcar steelworks in 2010, and is designed to introduce 12 to 14 year olds to the world of work in and around Teesport.

During the 8 week programme, the youngsters will visit a number of different businesses around Teesport, and take a trip on the Harbour Master’s launch to see the area from the river itself.  As well as gaining an insight into areas such as commercial shipping and shipbroking, engineering and dock operations, the group will also visit Asda’s Teesport Distribution centre and David Fox Transport in Grangetown.

David Wilson, HR Manager at PD Ports explains: “We’re using the example of a mobile ‘phone to show the students how everyday goods they take for granted are transported across the globe and into their homes, illustrating the important roles that businesses on Teesport play in the  global supply chain. Each week, the students will see a different aspect of the journey, and learn about some of the many job opportunities that exist along the way”.

The launch of the first programme has been made possible thanks to a grant from the Institute of Chartered Shipbrokers (ICS), who are taking a keen interest in the scheme.

High Tide’s Chairman, Kevin Shakesheff, chairman of Middlesbrough-headquartered Casper Shipping comments: “We are very grateful indeed to the ICS for their generosity in enabling us to get this exciting new programme underway.  We are hoping that our twelve High Tide Cadets will be the first of many, helping us achieve our long term aim of bringing greater opportunities to young people on Teesside”.

The new programme will be running alongside a number of High Tide’s other schemes,  including a Summer Scheme which offers school leavers a two-week work experience placement with businesses who are members of High Tide.

33,500

Students supported since 2012
with life-changing industry-led work experience programmes and enrichment events

28,000

Hours of engagement with employers
connecting students directly with people in various job roles for real-life career experiences

750

Business members involved
from a range of sectors who co-designed and delivered our industry-led career programmes

"“This has been so educational, not only for the students but also the teachers; I had no idea of what really went on down here. This is great knowledge that I can take back with me and share with the other colleagues and students.”"

Teacher, Middlesbrough

""It was very informative and was definitely worth every minute. The speakers and staff were very kind and helped us all build a better understanding of the world of engineering. This was an insight I doubt I could have gotten anywhere else.""

Year 7 Student, Redcar

"“I am grateful for the help and life changing experience High Tide have gave me and believe that I wouldn’t have got this chance anywhere else. I believe that without high tide I would have never received or had an opportunity to gain valuable experience and knowledge”"

Year 6 Student, Middlesbrough

"“My experience with High Tide provided me with amazing opportunities and allowed me to meet very influential people who have helped me to gain confidence as well as skills I will take with me for the rest of my life.""

Year 6 Student, Middlesbrough

"Start to finish there was loads of enthusiasm from the employees and the students! Really fun to be a part of this!"

Age 17, 5-day VWEX (Engineering)

"I enjoyed the work experience, I learnt new skills on how to write my CV and what employers look for."

Age 13, Discovery day (Employability)

Our Corporate Partners

Casper Shipping
Jacksons Law Firm
PD Ports