Training involves college-based education integrated
with periods of training at sea.
Sponsorship is available from shipping companies and other organisations
so not only would your course fees be paid but you would receive
a salary or training allowance throughout your training. Applications
should be made direct to shipping companies.
All training starts with a residential course at
a nautical college. This is designed to give you the necessary skills
and underpinning knowledge to operate safely at sea.
The next phase of training is the first sea phase
where in the deck department you will work alongside ratings and
under the supervision of qualified officers developing practical
navigation and other ship operation skills. In the engine department,
qualified engineer officers will help you put your college theory
into practice. After this your training alternates between shore-based
studies and work at sea where you will be given greater responsibility
as your training progresses.
Cadet training typically lasts for three years. Further
training and experience, once qualified, will enable you to progress
to the qualifications needed to become a ship's Master, frequently
referred to as Captain, who is in overall command of the ship, or
Chief Engineer, who is in charge of all the engineering and technical
services. To achieve these senior qualifications takes, typically,
a further five or six years. Promotion will depend on merit and
opportunity as well as holding higher level qualifications.
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