Eleven young people from across Cornwall have taken their first steps toward an exciting and challenging career in the commercial fishing industry. As part of a structured introduction to life at sea, these motivated individuals are now beginning a comprehensive two-week training programme designed to equip them with the essential safety knowledge and practical skills required to thrive in one of the region’s most vital industries.

Fishing has long been a cornerstone of Cornwall’s coastal communities, and this initiative aims to ensure that the next generation is well-prepared to uphold and modernise that proud tradition. The training is not just about preparing them with the mandatory basic training, but providing them with essential skills and giving them an insight into the Industry.

Getting Started: Week One of Training

 Participants will undertake mandatory safety courses, including First Aid, Health & Safety, and Firefighting — all mandatory elements for anyone working in a high-risk marine environment. These early sessions are designed to instil confidence and preparedness, ensuring that trainees know how to respond effectively in emergency situations.

In addition to safety protocols, candidates will begin learning fundamental industry skills such as basic engineering and navigation. These introductory lessons give them the tools to understand how vessels operate and how to navigate the often complex conditions of working at sea.

One of the highlights of the first week is a visit to a working Newlyn crabber — a commercial fishing vessel actively engaged in crab fishing. This field visit gives the trainees their first real-world look at life aboard a fishing boat, helping them visualise what their future working environment might look like. It also serves as an opportunity to meet industry professionals and begin forming valuable connections.

Immersive Learning: Week Two in Action

Week two shifts focus toward real-world application and deeper industry insights. Trainees will visit the local fish market to gain a better understanding of how the industry functions once the catch is brought ashore. Here, they’ll learn about the correct handling and care of the catch — a crucial aspect of maintaining product quality and market value.

Safety continues to be a top priority, and participants will also complete Sea Survival Training during this week. This component teaches them how to cope with emergency situations at sea, such as vessel abandonment, and how to use survival equipment effectively. It’s a hands-on, immersive experience that gives trainees a true sense of the realities of life offshore.

For many, the highlight of the week will be the opportunity to head out on a boat for the first time. Experiencing the open sea is a pivotal moment for any aspiring fisher — one that brings both excitement and a new level of respect for the job ahead.

To round off the training, the final two days will focus on ropes and knots — an often-overlooked yet essential skillset for anyone working on deck. Mastery of these techniques can make a real difference on the job, especially when it comes to handling gear, securing equipment, or mooring the vessel.

Looking Ahead: A Future at Sea

By the end of the two-week programme, these eleven young people will not only have earned important certifications but will also have gained a practical, informed perspective on what a career in commercial fishing entails. More importantly, they’ll have taken a crucial step towards joining a workforce that is vital to Cornwall’s economy and heritage.

This initiative is more than just a training course — it’s an investment in the future of the fishing industry, ensuring that the next generation is skilled, confident, and ready to meet the challenges of life at sea.