Celebrating Lifelong Learning Week

Carnival UK embraced Get The Nation Learning week by hosting a Lifelong Learning Week, a celebration personal and professional growth across our shoreside and onboard teams.

Throughout the week, we invited colleagues to pause, reflect and celebrate their learning experience, whether it was mastering a new skill, attending a workshop or embracing a fresh way of working. Because at Carnival UK, learning isn’t confined to a single week, it’s a lifelong journey, and we’re committed to supporting our people every step of the way.

Learning in action

Our Learning team ran events designed to inspire and empower. Highlights included ‘Day in the Life’ sessions, where our Learning Development Officers shared their career journeys, onboarding experiences, practical insights and top tips alongside lively Q&A discussions.

In our office Atrium, colleagues from both shoreside and onboard came together to share their learning stories. The Learning team showcased a wide range of resources, from workshops and masterclasses to bite-sized sessions and Power Hours, designed to help colleagues personalise their development journey at a pace and style that suits them. Attendees also got a sneak peek into what’s coming in 2026!

Voices from across the business

The team also shone a spotlight on development stories and gained an understanding of how colleagues like to learn.

Aisling Fowler, Communications & Training Manager at Princess Cruises, shared how bite-sized formats like podcasts, newsletters, and forums help her stay ahead:

“They help me stay current with trends in internal comms and learning, and they fit seamlessly into the rhythm of my day. One person who’s inspired me along the way is Joanna Parsons, CEO of The Curious Route. Her content is sharp, engaging, and always on point, perfect for learning on the go during a busy work week.

“My journey in learning and development has taken me from onboard roles as a Learning & Development Officer with P&O Cruises, to shoreside with Guest Experience, and now to Princess Cruises Guest Services. Each chapter has expanded my perspective and fuelled my excitement for shaping our 2026 learning and communication strategies. A key focus is evolving our digital solutions to bring learning to life in new and impactful ways.

Kalina Stoilova, Applications Analyst, shared how her passion for learning brought her from Bulgaria to Southampton to study at university, before she joined Carnival UK:

“I am very tech-oriented, both at work and in my personal life, and I believe that keeping up with emerging technologies is essential for driving success. Technology continues to improve so many aspects of our lives, and I see it as a powerful enabler of progress. It revolutionises the way we all live, communicate and work – it has become an integral part of the world.”

Kalina is now focused on developing her leadership and management skills, aiming to grow into a strategic role where she can empower others and drive continuous improvement. She credits Power Hours for offering fresh perspectives and valuable connections.

Kate Johnston, Manager, Employer Brand, acknowledges that finding time for developing new skills can be a challenge, and offered a refreshingly honest take on learning:

“I’ve never been someone who sets strict long-term learning goals. For me, learning happens naturally through the work I do. If I’m working on a new project, I’ll seek out the knowledge and skills I need to deliver the best results.”

Kate is currently exploring digital tools for career websites and learning how AI, like Copilot, can enhance her work. She prefers face-to-face sessions and values hands-on practice, but above all, she champions curiosity:

“The most valuable lesson I’ve learned is simple: be honest. Ask questions, admit when you don’t know something. We’re a friendly bunch, and colleagues are always happy to share their knowledge.

“Lifelong learning is about staying curious, embracing challenges, and growing together.”