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Fully funded learning opportunities for parents and carers at Borders College
Employability | Training
A unique employability programme based at Eyemouth Marine is now welcoming referrals for young people and adults who are out of work and face barriers to employment.
The Viking Project combines practical boatbuilding, personal development and employability support, offering participants the opportunity to gain hands-on experience while building confidence, teamwork skills and pathways towards future employment, apprenticeships and further learning.
Based at Eyemouth Marine, the programme gives participants the chance to contribute to the construction of a small boat and a new boatshed while learning practical skills in a working environment.
Participants will develop experience in areas including:
The programme is designed for people who learn best through practical activity and may be particularly appealing to those with an interest in construction, engineering, manufacturing or the marine sector.
The employability programme forms part of the wider Viking Project, an initiative that brings together maritime heritage, skills development and education through the restoration of Bee, a rare Stroma Yole built in 1904.
Originally developed in partnership with Eyemouth High School, the project was created to help address local marine skills shortages while creating meaningful pathways for young people into employment and training.
What began as a pilot project quickly demonstrated wider benefits. Participants developed technical skills alongside increased confidence, problem-solving abilities and stronger teamwork skills. The practical nature of the project also provided an alternative learning environment for those who may not thrive in traditional classroom settings.
Over time, the Viking Project has evolved into an established skills and employability initiative, attracting support from schools, businesses, community organisations and heritage partners.
Participants on the employability programme can expect around 10-12 hours of activity each week, delivered on Wednesdays and Fridays from 6th November 2027, alongside support to set personal goals, review progress and explore opportunities including work experience, employment, apprenticeships and further training.
The programme also supports participants to work towards recognised achievements through the Personal Development Award framework and a CSCS card, helping to strengthen future employment prospects.
Importantly, the project focuses on meeting people where they are, supporting individuals to build confidence and skills at a pace that works for them.
“It is invaluable for us, as the parents of a child with complex needs, to see him so proud to be part of a project.”
“A brilliant and necessary concept, marrying obvious skills gaps with local projects in need of spare hands.”
Referrals are now being welcomed for unemployed young people and adults who face barriers to finding or sustaining employment.
Professionals and support organisations are encouraged to discuss the opportunity with individuals who may benefit from participating. Eligibility and any support requirements will be considered before places are confirmed.
The programme will be delivered at Eyemouth Marine, Browns Bank, Eyemouth, TD14 5DQ.
For further information or to discuss a potential referral, contact Kevin McClure by email at [email protected] or telephone 07498 539795.
The Viking Project demonstrates how heritage, skills development and community partnerships can come together to create meaningful opportunities for local people, helping participants gain practical experience, build confidence and take positive steps towards employment and further learning.
