Do you have students who have dreamed of exploring the deep sea, protecting marine life, or building underwater robotics? Then this is the event for them.
The Future Ocean Scientists and Technologists (FOST) programme is designed for students aged 16-17 in their final years of compulsory education, with the objective of broadening their horizons and inspiring them with opportunities in ocean science and technology.
The programme is delivered through a partnership between The Wellington Trust and the Society for Underwater Technology (SUT); bringing together their experience, expertise and connections to deliver a unique opportunity for London’s young people.
FOST comprises 2 phases
Phase 1: Careers Event: Wednesday 11 February 2026
Phase 2: Residential: June/July 2026 tbc
PHASE 1: Careers Event to be held onboard HMS Wellington
The one-day event will welcome three schools, each bringing up to 20 students
Students will have the chance to speak with a wide range of industry specialists on a one-to-one basis to explore the opportunities within their sector.
Areas covered are likely to include:
- Autonomous Underwater Vehicles (AUVs) and Autonomous Shipping
- Offshore Wind Energy
- Oceanography, acoustics, AI and security
- Subsea communications
- Aquaculture and marine biology
- Underwater geology and seabed mapping
- Underwater archaeology
There will also be opportunities to engage with practical activities on our weather and quarter deck.
Activities are likely to include:
- Remote Operated Vehicle (ROV) demo
- Tidal energy experimentation
- Soil mechanics investigations
- Considering climate change in the arctic regions
- Viewing live plankton samples with specialist equipment
How to enter and make the most of the sector through talks and Q&As
Students will also be able to hear from young people who have joined these career sectors in the last 10-15 years. Hear how they entered their occupations and explore career progression possibilities.
Who would enjoy a career in ocean science and technology?
The event is aimed at young people who have shown an interest or acumen in science, technology and problem solving,
Skills for this area include:
- Problem solving
- Enjoy teamwork
- Can work effectively alone
- Like to explore possibilities – push boundaries
This is a whole day event starting at 10:15 and finishing at 14:45, lunch is included for all participants (special dietary needs can be accommodated with prior notice).
PHASE 2: Residential
Open to one school only (20 students plus minimum 2 members of teaching staff) selected from those attending the careers event.
Where: Plymouth University and businesses local to Plymouth
When: June/July 2026 tbc with school and university
Why: To give students a unique opportunity to explore ocean science and technology in depth by visiting businesses and university departments offering apprenticeships and qualifications in the sector.
How: All travel, accommodation and subsistence costs are covered by the FOST programme. There is no charge to the school, students or the parents of the students. We will need a minimum of 2 members of teaching staff to be in attendance for the full duration of the residential and they will be in charge of student behaviour and safety.
To register your school’s interest in one or both phases of FOST, please complete the form below.
How to Find HMS Wellington
HMS Wellington is berthed alongside Victoria Embankment at Temple Stairs – WC2R 2PN
Tube
The nearest Underground station is Temple on the District and Circle Lines
Overground Train
The nearest railway station is Blackfriars. Waterloo and Charing Cross are also close by.
Coach
Students can be dropped off from buses on the Embankment (west bound). Vehicles approaching from the West will need to turn left into Temple Place and then go right at the lights to gain the West-bound carriage way. Parking for buses is available nearby at Temple Place.