The Princess Royal has officially opened UKSA’s new Victoria Barracks education centre in East Cowes, expanding maritime training and education on the Isle of Wight.
The historic Victoria Barracks site has been transformed into a dedicated maritime education facility, marking a major expansion for UKSA as it looks to inspire more young people and support the next generation of maritime professionals.
The centre was formally opened on Monday during a special ceremony attended by UKSA’s Royal Patron, HRH The Princess Royal, accompanied by Vice Admiral Sir Timothy Laurence.
Victoria Barracks will increase UKSA’s capacity for education, skills development and community engagement, while also providing facilities designed to help children and families access and enjoy the sea.
The project has been several years in the making and has been delivered in partnership with the Isle of Wight Council through a combination of public funding, charitable giving and philanthropic support.
Catherine Dixon, CEO of UKSA, said:
“The opening of Victoria Barracks is a landmark moment for UKSA and for the future of maritime education. This new centre significantly expands our ability to inspire and support children, young people and adults, helping them develop the skills, qualifications and confidence they need to thrive.”
“We are deeply grateful to the supporters, donors, funders and partners who have helped make this vision a reality. Together, we have brought an important historic building back into use and created a lasting asset that will benefit generations to come.”
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“Victoria Barracks will help more people experience the transformational power of the sea, opening up opportunities and widening access to maritime education and careers for people from all backgrounds.”
The new education centre will play a key role in supporting UKSA’s future growth and its commitment to tackling skills shortages across the maritime sector.
By increasing capacity and widening access to maritime experiences and training, the charity hopes more children, young people and adults will be able to discover their potential, build confidence and pursue careers at sea or within the wider maritime industry.
The opening also secures the long-term future of the historic Victoria Barracks site, bringing the prominent East Cowes landmark back into active use while creating a lasting community asset for generations to come.
