A ROLE-PLAY day aimed at sharpening up youngsters’ leadership and teamwork skills takes place at Harwich International Port tomorrow (Tuesday, September 20).

The port will be hosting the Sea Port Role Play Day along with Essex County Council and the Haven Gateway Partnership at the Cruise Terminal.

The event, now in its seventh year, is codenamed ‘Exercise Haven Seaports’ and it is expected to attract more than 100 students from local schools.

It aims to help students from Colchester and Tendring develop their employability skills and an opportunity to work alongside professionals from a number of service industries.

Students will play out an imaginary scenario in which several vessels are damaged in the Harwich Haven, and they will take on the role of the sectors involved in the emergency response - Harwich International Port, Essex County Council, Essex Police, Essex Fire and Rescue Service, East of England Ambulance Service, the RNLI, The Salvation Army, Harwich Haven Authority, Maritime and Coastguard Agency and the two windfarms companies Fluor and Aarsleff who operate in the area.

Hutchison Ports (UK) chief executive David Gledhill said: “It is a great testament to this event’s enduring success that it is now into its seventh year. In a year where we have had a close-up view of the challenges and pressures facing young people today, and their increasing disillusionment with society, it is important to highlight the opportunities and rewards available to those dedicated to achieving.

“We hope to inspire students to achieve their full potential, and discover as-yet untapped skills of leadership, lateral thinking and teamwork, skills which will serve them well when embarking upon their chosen career paths.”

Throughout the day, students will be required to make important decisions and to respond to ever-changing conditions that are affected by external factors beyond their control.

The safety of passengers, customer service and logistical issues will all have to be taken into consideration, while ensuring resources are managed as effectively as possible. As well as problem-solving and decision-making, the students will learn important crisis management and communication skills.