Become a Captain, Chief Engineer or Electro‑Technical Officer on commercial vessels – from container ships to cruise liners or superyachts. Enjoy a dynamic, well-paid career with global travel where no two days are ever the same!
An officer trainee cadetship is a fully funded three-year programme that leads to both an academic and professional qualification known as a certificate of competency, issued by the Maritime Coastguard Agency. The programme of study - in either Deck (Navigation), Engineering or Electro-technical studies - alternates between a college course, (L2-6 available) and training aboard commercial ships.
A cadetship is sponsored by either a shipping company or a charitable organisation and covers all aspects of training, including college fees, travel costs, and a monthly bursary for living expenses. The minimum entry requirements to start a cadetship are 4 GCSE (levels 4-9) or Scottish Standard grades (level 1-3), including Maths, English and one science based subject.
Entry Routes:
Deck Officer: Navigate the ship, plan passages, manage cargo, work towards Captain rank
Marine Engineer Officer: Operate propulsion and power systems, train to Chief Engineer
Electro‑Technical Officer (ETO / METO): Maintain all electrical and electronic systems onboard, ensuring safety and efficiency
Why Choose a Career at Sea?
Fully funded training: college, sea phases, monthly bursary
No prior experience necessary—just the right academic foundation
Develop skills for life: leadership, teamwork, problem-solving
Ongoing professional development and global travel experiences
Build internationally recognised qualifications with wide career transferability
Why start an officer cadetship?
Train for free
Bursary for all
No experience required
Skills for life
Continuous development
Travel
Qualifications
