UK Seafood School launched

It is hoped the new facility will support the long-term growth of Grimsby’s seafood industry

The next generation of seafood professionals will hone their skills at a dedicated new training facility in Grimsby.

The UK Seafood School at Grimsby Institute includes a demonstration kitchen, wet room training space and redesigned restaurant.

Group Vice Principal Maria Turnbull-Kemp, said the school would "provide the next generation with the skills and knowledge they need to thrive" in the industry, while also "celebrating Grimsby’s rich heritage in the sector".

The facility has been funded by a £185,000 grant from DEFRA, and additional investment from TEC Partnership, which runs the Institute.

Ms Turnbull-Kemp added: "It’s a fantastic opportunity for young people in our community and I look forward to seeing the positive impact this will have, not only on the students, but on the entire seafood industry in the region.”

A refurbished wet room will help students learn practical seafood preparation skills

Great Grimsby and Cleethorpes MP Melanie Onn, who spoke to the Local Democracy Reporting Service at the launch event, described the seafood school as “brilliant”.

“It’s very exciting to have the seafood school here, getting people excited about a product that Grimsby is so famous for," she said. 

According to Grimsby Institute, the launch builds on government investment into Grimsby’s seafood sector, including more than £13.2m provided through the UK Seafood Fund and over £18m through the Levelling Up Fund.

The school previously had facilities for hospitality students, but the grant funding has helped to improve what was previously on offer.

Up to 75 students could train using the facilities in the school's first year.

Carrie Vaughan, UK Seafood School project coordinator, said by offering "food-focused courses" to local schools and industry professionals, as well as students, the school would help "boost the local economy" and "inspire the nation to embrace seafood".

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