CEC Principal Recognised as Finalist for Prestigious Maritime Legacy Award

Cowes Enterprise College proudly announces that our Principal, Rachel Kitley, has been selected as a finalist for the Maritime Legacy category at the Maritime UK Solent Awards.

This prestigious award nomination reflects her outstanding contributions to the maritime sector and the profound impact she has made within the Solent region.

Rachel Kitley’s leadership at Cowes Enterprise College has been marked by the successful implementation of the ground-breaking Maritime Futures Curriculum. This innovative program inspires and empowers young minds, encouraging them to embrace the rich maritime heritage of the Isle of Wight while exploring exciting career prospects within the maritime industries.

Her commitment to fostering strong partnerships with maritime businesses across the Solent has been instrumental in propelling students toward maritime careers. Under her guidance, the Maritime Futures Curriculum received the Maritime UK Future Skills Award, a testament to its exceptional impact on maritime education.

At Cowes Enterprise College, Rachel has infused maritime education into mainstream subjects, giving students valuable exposure to maritime concepts throughout their academic journey. For instance Year 7 students learn essential Design and Technology skills by crafting model sailing boats, seamlessly integrating physics and mathematics principles.

To promote maritime careers, Rachel organised the academy’s first STEM and Maritime Festival, attracting numerous maritime employers from across the Solent region. This initiative significantly contributed to the remarkable statistic that 10% of the A-Level cohort transitioned to maritime-related employment and study.

Rachel’s dedication to the maritime sector extends beyond the walls of Cowes Enterprise College. She sits on the government’s National Shipbuilding Skills Task Force, advocating for the maritime industry at a national level. Her vision and willingness to share her experiences have also led to the establishment of a network of coastal schools developing maritime curricula, further cementing her status as a maritime ambassador.

The Maritime Legacy Award recognises individuals who have positively impacted the Solent Maritime Sector, demonstrated constructive support for young people and apprentices, contributed to regional economic development, and served as an ambassador for the maritime sector.

Rachel Kitley’s nomination in this category underlines her tireless efforts to instil pride in the maritime environment and unlock opportunities for every student at Cowes Enterprise College, showcasing the vast potential of coastal living and maritime careers.

Cowes Enterprise College eagerly anticipates the awards ceremony and extend our heartfelt best wishes to Rachel.