Indian students get a taste of marine life on Shields Ferry trip

The students, who began their studies at South Shields Marine School this week, got the chance to see how the cross-Tyne service is operated.

The visit was ideal preparation for the group who are studying for HNDs in marine engineering, as they work towards careers in the shipping industry.

Nexus, the public body which owns and operates the Shields Ferry, hosted the visit. Members of the crew also provided guided tours and presentations.

The visit gave the 23 students a chance to see the engine room on board Pride of the Tyne.

The ferry’s engineers showed how the vessel’s propulsion units are maintained.

They also got to see the wheelhouse on Spirit of the Tyne while the vessel was in operation on its daily crossings between North Shields and South Shields.

Shields Ferry manager, Carol Timlin, said: “It was a privilege for us to welcome the international students from South Shields Marine School.

“They are the future of the marine industry and it’s great that we can play our part in helping them as they embark on their studies.

“Our crew thoroughly enjoyed hosting the students, who asked all the right questions, and were genuinely interested in how our ferries are maintained and operated.”

Martin Jones, curriculum leader at South Shields Marine School, said: “We wanted to give the students an introduction to their course with some experience of a being on a vessel, connecting the theory they have learned in the classroom with what actually happens in the industry.

“They are all hoping to get into the merchant navy want to be engineering officers working at sea.

“This visit to the Shields Ferry will hopefully inspire them.”