Boatmaster Apprenticeship
The 2-year Boatmaster Level 3 Apprenticeship covers a wide range of commercial activity on inland tidal and non-tidal waterways in the UK. Boatmasters often navigate vessels through busy and highly challenging waterways. Career opportunities are extensive - for instance, a Boatmaster could be the captain of a single vessel passenger boat or could be working for a large freight operator, responsible for safely moving freight up the river to a port.
Quote
“I think this programme is important because there are untapped skills and a workforce waiting to meet its potential due to a previous lack of awareness and advice. People like me were not aware of the avenues and opportunities relating to the marine industry, simply because we may not know anyone or have any generational background. The apprenticeship offered by TfL is a step towards building a new external talent base and upskilling internal candidates to progress in their careers.”
Mumin Malik – Woolwich Ferry’s first BML Apprentice
Salary - £25,294
What we offer
You will enjoy excellent benefits and scope to grow. Rewards vary according to the business area but mostly include:
• Free travel on the TfL network for you and a nominee who lives in the same household
• Discounted national rail and Eurostar travel
• Minimum 29 days annual leave (pro rata dependent on role) plus public and bank holidays
• Tax-efficient cycle-to-work programme
• Retail, health, leisure and travel offers & many more
Location
London/ Hybrid
You will have to travel outside of London for training blocks throughout the apprenticeship
Duration 24 months
Entry requirements
• English and Maths to GCSE (or equivalent) grade C or 4. If not, SeaRegs will assist you in gaining these qualifications during the Apprenticeship.
• MCA's ENG1 medical before the start date. (This will be refunded if successful and start your role TfL)
Proposed start date
8th September 2025
Job overview
You will gain the following knowledge; onboard health and safety law, good knowledge and maintenance of ropework, access and lifting gear, seamanship, navigation and passage planning including radar usage, anchoring, knowledge of International Maritime Organisation Conventions, company bridge procedures, emergency regulations, all aspects of ship manoeuvrability, propulsion, steering and obstacles (locks, docks and bridges) including tides and poor weather. Onboard communication systems and methods, legislation of vessel construction and operation, maintenance of deck machinery and factors that affect seaworthiness. General engineering practice and procedures and pollution legislation. Also included is equality and diversity legislation, awareness of the employer’s business objectives to ensure that the vessel contributes to the business.
Sustainability:
Sustainability is intrinsic to TfL’s work ethos, and we ensure that we operate in a sustainable way to protect and regenerate the natural world.
What will I be doing?
As an apprentice, your two year development programme will be made up of many placement rotations which will work around your formal training outside of London. Our aim is to equip you with the range of skills and experience you need for your successful career.
We also understand that everyone’s career is different, so every apprentice’s journey is unique. Here’s an idea of what yours could look like:
Placement 1 – Introduction to Woolwich Ferry and Transport for London
Placement 2 – Introduction to Woolwich Ferry shoreside operations
Placement 3 – Introduction to deck operations
Where can this career take me?
• A Bridge Officer at Woolwich Ferry
• A Bridge Officer on commercial vessels on inland waterways
• If you chose to do so you can continue to develop seagoing qualifications (beyond your time at TfL) you may choose to travel the world at sea
What training and support will you get?
Our award-winning teams will support your ongoing development, through a wide range of on-the-job practical experience and placements. We'll support your professional development through a combination of training, mentoring, and networking.
You'll also receive one-to-one guidance throughout the programme from your:
• Placement manager: Responsible for your day-to-day management and support with your development
• Scheme sponsor: A senior manager who acts as a technical and professional adviser and has line manager responsibility
• Buddy: Usually an apprentice or graduate who gives support to you and ensure that you feel welcomed in the organisation
• Development adviser: Supports your professional development through providing career coaching and career progression at TfL
What do we look for?
Our core values are extremely important to us, and we desire candidates who are:
• Caring about our colleagues, our customers and our work
• Open to each other, to new ideas and to working together
• Adaptable to diverse needs and willing to innovate
