Level 2 Able Seafarer (Deck)

This occupation is found in a wide range of specialist vessels, both commercial and military, be it carrying cargo, equipment, passengers, or crew.

Seafarers are employed in both the Merchant Navy and the Royal Navy and the vessels they work on vary considerably in their size, type, and use. The broad purpose of the occupation is to support the vessel arriving at its destination or meeting another objective (such as unloading cargo), in line with the requirements set out by the ships Master.

Key competencies include:

• Navigation and Seamanship: have proficient navigation skills, including chart plotting, route planning, and the use of navigational equipment.
• Ship Operations: Carry out ship operations effectively, including cargo handling, anchoring, mooring, and manoeuvring the vessel in different conditions.
• Watchkeeping: Perform watchkeeping duties, closely monitoring the ship’s position, activities, and safety systems. They will know how to respond to emergencies and ensure the safety of the crew and vessel.
• Equipment and Machinery Operation: Be knowledgeable about operating and maintaining various ship machinery and equipment, such as engines, pumps, generators, and communication systems.
• Safety and Emergency Procedures: Be well-versed in maritime safety regulations and emergency procedures, including firefighting, life-saving techniques, and the use of safety equipment.
• Seamanship and Knot Tying: Have practical seafaring skills, such as knot tying, rope handling, rigging, and general deck maintenance.
• Environmental Awareness: Understand the importance of environmental protection and sustainability, following best practices to minimize the ship’s impact on marine ecosystems and complying with environmental regulations.

Career options

A seafarer apprenticeship can open up a range of career options and opportunities for progression within the maritime industry. With further training and experience, an apprentice can progress to become a deck officer, they can work their way up the ranks from third officer to second officer, chief officer, and ultimately, captain. Seafarers may choose to specialise in specific areas such as dynamic positioning, marine surveying, maritime law, maritime safety, or maritime research. Specialisation allows for career growth in niche sectors and can lead to higher-ranking positions or shore-based roles.

In partnership with the Marine Society & Sea Cadets (MSSC) UKSA is providing the training for this apprenticeship over 12 to 18 months.

Recruitment options will be advised upon separately once suitable employers have been signed up with MSSC.

MSSC Deck Ratings Leaflet

• No experience required
• Apprentices must be a UK national or have been resident for at least 3 years. EU nationals must have settled status.
• You must be aged 16+
• Individual employers will determine their own entry requirements but due to the nature of the role it is expected that candidates will meet certain medical standards of physical health.  Possession of a driving licence is likely to be advantageous.
• GCSE English  and Maths Level 1
• Every civil apprentice without exception will need to pass the MCA’s strict ENG 1 medical requirements.

1. STCW Basic Safety Courses: Personal Survival Techniques, Firefighting and Fire Prevention, Emergency First Aid, Personal Safety and Social Responsibilities
2. STCW Proficiency in Designated Security Duties
3. Certificate in Maritime Studies: Able Seafarer (Deck)
4. Proficiency in Survival Craft and Rescue Boats Certification

Apprentices without Level 2 English and maths will need to achieve this level prior to taking their end point assessment. For those with an education, health and care plan or a legacy statement the apprenticeships English and maths minimum requirement is Entry Level 3 and British Sign Language qualification are an alternative to English qualifications for whom this is their primary language.

This is a government funded programme, please contact our careers team for more information.

Our apprenticeships offer aspiring seafarers the chance to take a step on a career pathway within maritime through a standardised programme. Through UKSA and the Marine Society you can gain international qualifications and a skillset foundation built for the maritime sector.

“If you’re a young person interested in the maritime or outdoor sector, or someone who wants to retrain, we invite you to get in touch so we can find an apprenticeship that meets your aspirations.”

– Darrell Bate, Director of Maritime Training and Development Marine Society and Sea Cadets

What is an Apprenticeship?

An apprenticeship is a real job where you learn, new knowledge, skills and behaviours and get paid. You’re an employee with a contract of employment which will include holiday entitlement. By the end of an apprenticeship, you’ll have the right qualities and qualifications needed for your chosen career.

An apprenticeship is a mixture of On and Off the Job Training which allows you to put new learnt skills and knowledge into practice in a real-life work setting.

It can take between one and six years to complete an apprenticeship depending on which one you choose, what level it is and your previous experience. It’s funded from contributions made by the government and your employer, so does not cost you a thing!

 How to become an Apprentice?

To become an apprentice, you must:

• be 16 or over.
• not already be in full-time education.
• live in England.

You can start an apprenticeship whether you’re starting your career, want a change or you’re upskilling in your current job. You can have a previous qualification like a degree and still start an apprenticeship.