The Institute of Export’s (IOE) internationally accredited courses are to be to be taught at the Port Academy Liverpool, as part of a drive to increase careers in the maritime industry.

The IOE’s International Trade and Logistics Operations and the Young International Trader will both be on the curriculum at the new academy, which will specialise in port operations and maritime logistics training when it opens in September.

Based within Bootle’s Hugh Baird College, the joint initiative will help address the UK’s skills shortage in the port and sea industries, which is facing a shortfall of 5,000 staff over the next few years.

Director General, Lesley Batchelor OBE, commented: “The Institute of Export is pleased to be playing a pivotal role in helping the UK’s maritime sector address its critical skills shortage. We look forward to enjoying a long and fruitful partnership with the college as an accredited centre for our courses.”

It is expected that the full range of IOE courses will eventually be available at the Port Academy Liverpool, which is offering training designed to meet both industry standards and the needs of local employers looking to recruit skilled staff.

Port Academy Liverpool project lead Shulah Jones, said: “Our business model is to create a valued relationship between brokers and industry to make sure our courses work for employers – which is why our partnership with the Institute of Export is so important. The IOE offers globally recognised qualifications and shares our aim to engage young people and encourage them to consider careers in maritime logistics.”

For more information about the IOE’s courses please visit www.export.org.uk or www.portacademyliverpool.com

Also please visit our website for more information on the IOE’s business membership, training and qualifications or contact us if you have any questions.