A Poole student has been awarded funding to train for a career working on luxury superyachts. Ashley Redwood, 19 began the Professional Superyacht Cadetship in October after being selected for a coveted bursary by Seafarers UK and topped up by the Milo Hanlon Bursary. As a real alternative to university, the course combines study sessions and sea phase training at UKSA, with work as deckhands on superyachts. The course also includes a Foundation Degree in Operational Yacht Science delivered in conjunction with Falmouth Marine School and validated by the University of Plymouth. While working, students can typically earn €2,000 a month tax free (not including tips), and while once onboard a vessel almost all their living costs are covered by the yacht too. If sensible, students can graduate debt free and sail into a lucrative career.
After spending three years working on tour boats in Poole Harbour, Ashley now has his sights set on superyachts. Ashley explained; “I fell in love with the idea of the course and I thought it was completely suited to me,” he explained. Staff at UKSA identified me as a potential candidate for a bursary, as I had funding problems but I have a seafaring background as I was part of a Royal Naval recognised Sea Scout group and had helped out for three years. It is a huge opportunity for me. None of my family have the same interest but they think it’s brilliant.”
As part of his cadetship, Ashley will do an FdSc foundation degreein Operational Yacht Science at Falmouth Marine School. In the four years of the course, Ashley will combine studying, sea phases and work within the superyacht industry.
The cadetship is a viable option for those considering vocational training over the traditional university career path. With the Foundation Degree recently being granted full-time status it can now be applied for through UCAS, plus successful 2015 cadets will be able to drawn down on student loans to assist them – as well as taking advantage of all the other associated benefits that full-time students enjoy.
