As the number of jobs available in traditional UK industry has dwindled, there has been a surge in interest in offshore training programmes such as those offered by the Marine Safety Centre in South Shields.

Speaking to the Shields Gazette, Tony Hodgson, a former offshore diver and training lecturer at the centre, which is part of South Tyneside College, explained that professionals already working in the UK oil and gas industry are also keen to refresh and expand their skills.

Anyone looking to work in the offshore sector is required to complete a three-day basic offshore survival induction emergency training course.

"There's a general increase for first-timers. As employment dries up people try to get experience offshore with their background trades," he commented.

The Marine Safety Centre also works in partnership with BP Marine Academy, Applied Research International and India's AMET University to provide leading offshore safety training for international students looking to get ahead in the oil and gas industry.

Oil and Gas Directory: Training and Development