The Blyth Tall Ship project has evolved from some ground breaking work with young people in Blyth, identified as likely to leave education at age 16 and therefore, in all probability, to join the ranks of many third and fourth generation unemployed in the area.

Supporting the youth of today through a project like this, particularly in an area like Blyth which has suffered over the years from the collapse of the coal and shipbuilding industry is something that Tharsus feels very passionate about. 

As a local employer projects like this are crucial to engage with young people to encourage, inspire, support and provide opportunities to develop skills and gain experience to give them a sense of achievement, self worth and the motivation to kick start a successful career.

As a manufacturing business in the region we are conscious that there is a skills gap, particularly in engineering and manufacturing and we are looking to support, develop and ultimately recruit local talent for the long term growth of the company and local community.

The project has been endorsed by well known names including Dame Ellen McArthur as well as the charity’s patron the Duchess of Northumberland.

The Blyth Tall Ship Project is about recapturing the spirit of adventure, global entrepreneurship and renewable energy use that was employed in Blyth to discover new land in the Antarctic Ocean 200 years ago in a sailing ship called the William's, to inspire future generations to fulfill their full potential through hands on learning experiences, like small boat restoration and building, that inspire young people who might otherwise discount education or training, to make life changing decisions to pursue skills based careers in the expanding offshore and renewable industries in the area.

The Long term outcomes are expected to be:

·         60+ new jobs in Blyth

·         30 new engineering apprentices a year

·         300 transformational sailing experiences a year

·         3000 school children a year engaged in hands on learning

·          30k visitors a year

·         A maiden voyage to the Antarctic & International Press and TV coverage