As specialists in the Maritime Industry, the National Maritime Training Centre offers apprenticeship training programmes tailored for the industry.
We understand that traditional day release is not always an option for shipping organisations, so our apprentice training programmes are delivered as a combination of distance learning and block release to the NMTC in Gravesend. Our apprenticeship training has been structured to meet the ever-increasing demands on industry and individuals to gain valuable qualifications without spending long periods of time at college.
Apprenticeship programmes offered:
MSQ Level 2 Diploma in Maritime Studies Boatmasters' Licence (BML)
The BML qualification consists of a number of units leading to: Diploma in Maritime Studies: Rivers, Inland Waterways and Limited Distances to Sea (Boatmaster Licence - BML) and is delivered as a 2 year programme including block release over 12 weeks of 6 x 2 weeks at the NMTC.
MSQ Level 2 Diploma or Certificate in Maritime Studies
This programme offers apprentices the opportunity to develop nautical or engineering skills, in the workplace and at College. The qualification consists of a number of units leading to either: Award/Certificate in Maritime Studies: Able Seafarer (Deck) or Diploma in Maritime Studies: Able Seafarer (Engine Room). The programme is delivered over 2 years - block release of 12 weeks in 3 periods of 4 weeks.
Officer of the Watch
Level 3, Pathway 3: Officer of the watch on Merchant Vessels of less than 500 gross tonnage (near coastal) including tugs, gives apprentices the opportunity to assist with bridge watchkeeping duties, steering and maintaining a course, mooring anchoring, and securing operations, following safe and environmentally friendly working practices. The programme is 2 years including block release of 12 x1 week long periods.
Maritime Caterer
The Maritime Caterer apprenticeship is a Level 2 qualification including the Award in Maritime Studies STCW Safety - SQA. Running over 2 years, the training is delivered at the NMTC and NKC's industrial training kitchens at Gravesend in 3 blocks of 4 weeks. It covers food purchase and storage; budgeting and menu planning specific to the needs of crew and passengers; and food storage for the fresh produce on board. Customer service is an important part of the role, along with a range of shipboard safety duties and responsibilities.
Who can train as an apprentice?
Apprenticeship training programmes are available to both existing and new staff and for any age. Large employers can use their Apprenticeship Levy to pay for the training programmes also. For existing staff this offers an ideal opportunity to up-skill and retrain for promotion, whilst for recruitment of new staff, the apprenticeship offers personnel the opportunity to earn as they learn.
Candidates should exhibit at least a basic experience in the industry, a commitment to progress their career and a good level of written English and maths.
Should you require any assistance in employing a new apprentice, or up-skilling existing staff through an apprenticeship, or need information about your Levy, please call us to discuss on 01322 629600
The National Maritime Training Centre is one of the country's leading assessment centres for maritime qualifications in the marine industry.
Most of our tutoring and lecturing staff are time served ships' officers from deck, engineering and communications, most of whom are also accredited vocational assessors and verifiers to ensure the quality of both training and assessment. The core staff are supported by a wide range of industry experts from the shoreside and seagoing sectors.