Emily Stokes Returns to the Boat Building Academy: A New Chapter in Education and Conservation
In February 2026, the Boat Building Academy (BBA) in Lyme Regis is set to welcome back Emily Stokes as a tutor for its prestigious 40-week flagship course. Stokes, who previously graduated from the program herself, brings not only her technical expertise but also a passion for teaching and a commitment to the conservation of traditional boat building techniques.
A Warm Welcome
Will Reed, the Director of the BBA, expressed excitement about Stokes’ return. He emphasized that the selection of tutors is predicated on both their exceptional boat building skills and their capacity to educate and inspire students. “Emily has all of this in spades,” Reed remarked, highlighting her capability to nurture the budding talents of future boat builders.
Emily’s Journey
“My time at the BBA was transformative,” Stokes shared, reflecting on her own experiences as a student. She noted that the academy offered her not just practical skills like woodworking and design, but also essential life skills such as resilience and determination—traits vital for anyone aspiring to excel in boat building. For Stokes, her education was about more than just boats; it was about personal growth and finding her purpose.
Mentorship at Its Core
Stokes plans to implement a mentorship model that addresses the diverse needs of her students. “We have a huge range of different ages, backgrounds, levels of experience, and ambitions,” she explained. While some students take to the craft effortlessly, others may require more time to cultivate their skills and confidence. Stokes expressed her hope to support each student individually, helping them realize their potential in the world of boat building.
From Student to Tutor
Since graduating from the BBA program four years ago, Stokes has been actively involved in the boat building industry. She has worked with renowned companies like Spirit Yachts in Suffolk and engaged in conservation projects, such as restoring Victory Live, the historic flagship of the Royal Navy, based in Portsmouth.
Before venturing into boat building, Stokes worked as a school teacher and for various environmental charities, driven by her long-standing passion for woodworking and the sea. It was during a walk along the Devon coast, amid the solitude of the pandemic, that she felt an undeniable pull towards a new career. “Something just clicked,” she recalls, recognizing her desire to see the boats she built gracing the waters.
A Holistic Approach to Education
Stokes’ commitment to producing not just skilled boat builders, but well-rounded individuals is evident in her approach. She aims to create an environment where students feel “on purpose” and motivated to explore the depths of their potential. By fostering a sense of community among students, she hopes that they will encourage one another, further enhancing their learning experience.
Emphasizing Conservation
The BBA is also dedicated to preserving traditional boat building methods. Stokes voiced pride in being part of a program that not only trains craftsmen but also emphasizes conservation. This commitment to maintaining historical techniques is vital in an age where modern technology often overshadows traditional craftsmanship.
Looking Ahead
As the Boat Building Academy gears up to welcome a new cohort of learners under Stokes’ guidance, it’s clear that her journey has come full circle. Her experiences as a student inform her teaching, ensuring that the next generation of boat builders will benefit from her insights and passion.
With Stokes at the helm of mentoring, the BBA stands poised to further its reputation as a leader in traditional boat building education, fostering skills that are crucial for both personal and professional development. Emily Stokes’ return is not just a personal milestone; it symbolizes a renewed commitment to nurturing future generations of boat builders and preserving the rich heritage of the craft.