Built on the site of a former historic Philip & Son boatyard, the academy is due to open on April 8.
The academy said its curriculum has been designed t meet the needs of the maritime sector, with training in new and emerging technologies like autonomous vessels and electric and hybrid propulsion systems.
Facilities include a marine engineering workshop, research and design facility, innovation hub, navigation suite and a bridge simulator. Courses available range from level 2 and 3 courses in Marine Engineering, Maritime Skills to Apprenticeships in Boat building, Warehousing and Composites to degree level qualifications in Marine Technologies, Coastal Engineering and more.
The academy is located at Noss on Dart in the UK and is part of a £75m regeneration project for the 37-acre site of the former Philip & Son shipbuilding yard.
Former South Devon College student Jack Cronk said his time at the college kickstarted his career, which went on to include an apprenticeship, Meng (Hons) Mechanical Engineering and a stint at the Mercedes AMG Formula 1 and Formula E teams, before returning to Salcombe and becoming Managing Director of Salcombe Marine Services (SMS).
“The course had great facilities, with very supportive tutors,” said Cronk. “They were always keen to offer more and there is nothing like it on offer in the South West.”
Cronk now employs two apprentices from the college at SMS.
