2 Yrs

Fully Funded

West Cowes, Isle of Wight

Broaden your horizons and start a career within the maritime industry

Our Maritime training courses have been designed specifically for students who want to embark on exciting and rewarding careers in the maritime or leisure industry or at our 3.5 acre waterfront campus in Cowes.

Our team of tutors have plenty of experience in the watersports, yachting and outdoor learning sectors and can help you choose the right pathway to progress your education and further your career.

Find the Right Course for You at UKSA

Choosing the right course is a big decision, and nothing compares to visiting in person.

At our Open Days, you’ll meet current students, talk to tutors, and tour the facilities where your training will take place.

We’ll answer all your questions and help you feel confident that UKSA is the right fit for your goals, whether you’re interested in watersports, superyacht careers, or maritime training.

Looking to apply for September 2026 – come along to our November 15th Open day

About the Course

Our maritime training programmes are designed as a stepping stone to employment in the industry and will equip you with the skills necessary.

On successful completion of the course, many of our students start work with leading watersports and outdoor education companies or progress into the yachting or superyacht sector.

You could even start working as an instructor after just a year of training with us at UKSA!

UKSA’s 2-year Maritime Foundation course is aimed at those who have no prior or little experience in watersports or yachting, providing you with the requirements to enter the maritime industry. If you are looking to escape the traditional classroom environment, experience time on the water in diverse areas, broaden your horizons and gain skills required to start your career then this course is for you.

This course is funded as part of a full-time 16+ further education (FE) programme, seeking a structured pathway into the industry of further training at UKSA’s.

Year 1
NCFE Level 2 Certificate/Diploma in Sport – Outdoors

  • RYA Powerboat Level 2
  • RYA Dinghy Instructor (subject to completing prerequisites)
  • RYA Safe and Fun
  • Paddle UK Paddlesport Safety and Rescue Course
  • RYA Marine Short-Range Radio Certificate
  • Paddle UK Paddlesport Instructor
  • STCW Personal Security Awareness
  • MCA Elementary First Aid
  • Work Experience including rope work, anchoring and industry guidance

*Supplementary elements and NFCE units can be subject to change

NCFE Level 2 Modules – Certificate
Participating in sport

  • Outdoor and adventurous activities
  • Leading an outdoor activity session
  • Plan, deliver and evaluate an activity session

NCFE Level 2 Modules – Diploma
Participating in sport

  • Outdoor and adventurous activities
  • Leading an outdoor activity session
  • Anatomy and Physiology for Exercise
  • Development of Personal Fitness and Training
  • Introduction to Healthy Exercise and Nutrition
  • Sports Volunteering

Year 2

NCFE Level 3 Introductory Certificate in Sport and Physical Activity – Outdoors

  • RYA Start Yachting
  • RYA Competent Crew
  • RYA Essential Navigation and Seamanship
  • STCW Fire Fighting and Prevention
  • STCW Personal Safety and Social
  • Responsibility Training
  • STCW Personal Survival Techniques
  • RYA Diesel Engine Maintenance
  • RYA Safety Boat
  • Introduction to basic deckhand skills such as splicing, wire work and varnishing
  • Simulator Training
  • Industry Guidance including CV, interview prep and careers days
  • Industry visits such as:
    • Southampton Boat Show
    • RYA Dinghy Show
    • Red Funnel
    • Royal Navy
    • Cowes Harbour Commission
    • Yacht Haven

*Supplementary elements and NFCE units can be subject to change

NCFE Level 3 Modules
Exercise, Health and Lifestyle
Principles and Practices in Outdoor Adventure

Preparing for a career in sport and physical activity

During this 2-year programme, 60% of your training will be practical based with the remaining 40% theory
5 days a week

If you are interested in applying for this programme of study, please apply directly through the IW College website.

You can apply online by clicking the ‘+ Apply Online’ button on the Isle of Wight College Website

Once completed, applications will be processed, an interview date will be sent out by email. All interviews are conducted by UKSA Education Tutors – interviews will be 1:1 and will include the completion of a set task. This will be stated in the letter sent by the Isle of Wight College.

Why Train with UKSA

UKSA has been successfully training and launching careers for over 35 years. As an industry leader, we pride ourselves on the winning combination of high standards and top-level industry experience delivered to our students.

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    All-inclusive Facilities
    All of our courses are available with all-inclusive accommodation and meals, allowing you to focus on your studies
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    MCA Approved
    We are recognised throughout the industry as one of the top three providers of MCA and STCW approved training programmes
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    Expert Training
    Our instructor team consists of highly skilled industry experts who bring their expertise and experience to enhance your learning.

From surf boards to superyachts... our courses suit every ambition

Whatever your career aspirations, we have all the support and facilities to help you achieve your goals

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