P&O Cruises celebrates ten-year partnership with Wilkes Academy
P&O Cruises is celebrating its long‑standing commitment to developing home-grown stage talent as the cruise line marks ten years sponsoring the Wilkes Academy of Performing Arts.
Championing young, up-and-coming performers at the college since 2016, P&O Cruises sponsorship supports students for 12 months of training – enabling graduates to kickstart rewarding careers with the cruise line’s in-house Headliners Theatre Company.
Widely recognised for its focus on professional excellence and industry‑ready training, Wilkes Academy – founded by TV Personality and performer Jonathan Wilkes – has built a strong reputation for equipping students with the skills, confidence and discipline required to succeed in competitive industries.
Jonathan Wilkes said: “We are incredibly grateful to P&O Cruises for ten wonderful years of partnership. Its unwavering support, along with the generous scholarships and opportunities it provides has been truly transformative for our students and graduates. Seeing our graduates showcase their talents across the fleet is a constant source of pride.”
The Academy’s mission centres on delivering the highest standard of education while preparing students for long‑term career success, something that closely aligns with P&O Cruises own values and people‑first culture. P&O Cruises supports Wilkes Academy students from education through to graduation, opening the door to real employment opportunities across its fleet of seven ships. Graduates can take their first professional steps at sea, gaining invaluable experience while travelling the world and contributing to unforgettable holidays for thousands of guests each year.
Carnival UK & P&O Cruises president, Paul Ludlow, said: “We are incredibly proud of our ten-year partnership with the Wilkes Academy of Performing Arts. The Academy shares our passion for excellence, professionalism and ambition. Supporting these students allows us to nurture future talent who go on to build exciting careers with us, seeing the world as Headliners across our fleet.”
(P&O Cruises celebrates ten-year partnership with Wilkes Academy)
