British Marine prepares to launch the BM Academy a game-changing digital training platform for the leisure marine industry
11 February 2026

British Marine is proud to announce it will soon be launching the British Marine Training Academy (BM Academy) a brand-new digital learning platform, designed specifically for the marine industry to transform training, upskilling and career development across the leisure marine sector.

Developed by the industry, for the industry, and backed by a group of committed founding partners, the BM Academy represents the most significant step-change in professional development the leisure marine sector has seen in decades.

Building on British Marine’s established training expertise and portfolio of face-to-face and online training, it will deliver high-quality, flexible and bite-sized courses to professionals and businesses across the UK and around the world. Removing traditional barriers to professional development – no travel, no time away from work and no unnecessary cost – the Academy will enable learners to access expertly designed courses online, on demand and at their own pace.

From essential introductions to the marine world through to specialist Continuing Professional Development (CPD) training, the Academy will support careers at every stage and help businesses build stronger, more skilled teams.

The British Marine Training Academy is more than just a new platform; it represents a step change for our industry. Skills, talent and knowledge are the foundations of a strong and sustainable sector, and the Academy demonstrates our commitment to investing in people at every stage of their career. We have listened carefully to our members, businesses and training partners, and are creating a solution that meets the real needs of today’s workforce. With the support of our founding partners and more than one hundred subject matter specialists, this platform will transform how we learn, develop and grow – helping businesses build stronger teams, attract new talent and prepare confidently for the future.

Lesley Robinson CEO at British Marine

With multiple courses already in development and many more in the pipeline, the BM Academy will cover technical skills, leadership, compliance, innovation and the future challenges facing the industry.

One of the first courses to launch will be a brand-new ‘Introduction to the Marine World’ a dedicated entry-level course designed to support new entrants, career changers and businesses onboarding new staff.

It will provide a welcoming and accessible gateway into the industry, helping employers attract, engage and retain new talent, while supporting workforce growth across the leisure marine sector. Look out for full details coming soon.

Hosted on a multi-award-winning digital learning platform, the Academy will set a new benchmark for online training in the leisure marine sector.

Early backing, insight and investment from our founding partners, Haven Knox-Johnston Commercial, part of Howden, Skandinavian Agency Services S.A.C Marine Surveyors, Aqueduct Marina and Bartons Solicitors, has been instrumental in bringing the Academy to life, demonstrating a shared commitment to strengthening skills, attracting new talent and building a more resilient future for the marine industry.

We firmly believe that the future success of the marine industry depends on sustained investment in skills and knowledge. The British Marine Training Academy provides a modern, flexible and industry-led approach to learning that will benefit individuals and businesses alike. We are proud to support this initiative from the outset.

Jenyfer Ramos, MSc Commercial Manager at Skandinavian Agency Services S.A.C Marine Surveyors

We are proud to be a founding partner of the British Marine Training Academy. The leisure marine industry is evolving rapidly, and access to high-quality, flexible training has never been more important. This Academy will play a vital role in developing skills, supporting career progression and helping businesses build stronger teams. Supporting this initiative reflects our long-term commitment to the people and businesses that power this industry.

Malcolm Stewart Head of Haven KJ Commercial

The BM Academy represents a major step forward for professional development in our industry. It will raise standards, help to retain existing and attract new talent by supporting continuous improvement across the marine sector. This is something I am delighted to see British Marine leading on as the industry trade body. Becoming a founding partner was a natural decision for us, and we are excited to be part of this important journey.

Robert Parton Owner-Director at Aqueduct Marina
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Sign up here: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/PCFMDNK

Watch this space. The future of marine training is coming.