Heysham Port owners achieve groundbreaking level in staff training

The owners of Heysham Port have achieved accreditation to deliver port-specific training to staff.

Peel Ports Group has officially achieved accredited learning provider status, thus becoming the first UK ports group to deliver a full suite of maritime qualifications

As an approved provider, the group is now delivering training including Level 2 and Level 4 Port Marine Operations Officer programmes.

A Level 3 Apprenticeship is also set to launch imminently, positioning Peel Ports as the first UK port to offer all three levels of this nationally recognised qualification.

A Peel Ports Group spokesperson said the milestone reflects its ongoing investment in skills, safety, and operational capability across its port estate, and positions it alongside major employers such as Amazon UK, IBM, National Grid and Jet2 on the government’s apprenticeship provider and assessment register; while allowing the group to tailor training to its specific business needs, while also addressing areas that have historically lacked formal qualifications in the sector. 

Training is already being provided to employees across the group’s UK operations, with its apprentices currently spanning from age 16 to 64.

Plans are already under way to expand the group's programme of qualifications to fit a wider scope of maritime employees.

It hopes to offer Level 3 Management qualifications and Level 2 Customer Service qualifications soon.

The move forms part of Peel Ports Group’s wider aims to help tackle the skills shortage across the maritime sector, by delivering qualifications tailored specifically for ports.

The courses will be regularly adapted to reflect industry trends and operational requirements, helping to build the unique skillset required of port workers.

“This achievement is about more than just status, it is about creating opportunities for our people at every stage of their career," said Claire McKay, Head of Learning and Development at Peel Ports Group.

“People have always been at the heart of our operations, and learning provider status allows us to go even further with internal training. By developing and delivering qualifications in-house, we can nurture local talent and ensure our workforce has the skills to meet the demands of a changing industry.

“Being recognised as a training provider also reinforces our role as a leader in workforce development within maritime and logistics. We are setting a benchmark for our sector; while also supporting the key industries we serve including construction, retail and energy.”