Vocational Academy - Maritime
Opportunities Worldwide
British Shipping is an industry of the future – well managed, technologically advanced and committed to respecting the environment. The shipping industry depends upon a core of highly competent and professional British seafarers who are respected worldwide for their high standards, the quality of their training, their ability and their judgement. Despite the economic downturn, there are still excellent opportunities for capable and enthusiastic young people to train to manage and operate modern and technically sophisticated ships. The prospects for a worthwhile and rewarding career in the Merchant Navy (the name given to working in commercial shipping) are excellent.
What Course Should You Do
Entry Level/Level 1
If you have not completed a GCSE programme
Level 2
If you have completed a GCSE programme but don’t have the grades specified at Level 3
- GCSEs (call 01253 504343 for details)
Level 3
If you have 4 GCSEs or more at grade C or above (including Maths, Science and English Language) or a merit grade at First Certificate/Introductory Diploma
- 3-year sponsored training scheme in the Merchant Navy including the National Certificate in Nautical Science
Career Low-Down
| Job title | What they do | How muchthey earn | What you need |
|---|---|---|---|
| Deck Officer | Responsible for the navigation of merchant navy ships, as well as for communications, cargo handling and ship stability. | £5,000 tax free while training rising to £22,000 a year once qualified. | An HNC/HND or Foundation Degree (Deck Officer). Move up through the ranks as you get more experienced. |
| Engineering Officer | Maintain and operate the mechanical and electrical equipment on board civilian ships. | £28,000 a year tax free. | |
| Chief Engineer | Responsible for all operations and maintenance that has to do with engineering equipment throughout the entire ship. | £100,000 a year tax free. | |
| Ship’s Captain/Master | Responsible for a ship’s safe and efficient operation, including cargo operations, navigation and crew management. | £100,000 a year tax free. |
Meet the Learner
Name: Greg Johnston
Age: 22
Course: National Certificate in Nautical Science
Why here?
It was a lucky twist of fate – I was due to attend another nautical college but I needed a late start date so I ended up here. It’s worked in my favour as this College has such a good reputation.
What’s good?
There are plenty of sources in the library and staff are really knowledgeable.
What next?
Officer of the Watch course and then hopefully a management position
