Pre-cadetship for the Merchant Navy Level 3 Diploma

You can take a big step towards launching your maritime career thanks to this unique learning opportunity.

This study programme will give you the knowledge, skills and competencies required to be successful in securing a full cadetship with sponsorship from a shipping company.

You will develop a variety of know-how through visits, classroom learning and practical sessions.

You will also choose a career pathway from the following list: Marine Engineer, Deck Officer or Marine Electrical Technical Officer.

Importantly, you will be encouraged to grow fully as an individual and develop the excellent interpersonal and communication skills required to become an officer in the Merchant Navy.

Why choose
Pre-cadetship for the Merchant Navy Level 3 Diploma?

At Brock you will learn and train at our purpose-built marine facility in Marchwood, on the Solent, near Southampton.

As a result, you will develop your abilities in a realistic working environment with learning assets including well-equipped workshops that contain industry-standard engines.

We even have a ship simulator, which gives you a 100% immersive experience of steering a heavy vessel through a wide range of global ports.

All training will be delivered by a team of carefully selected lecturers and industry experts with specific professional industry experience.

This course is backed by the South Coast Institute of Technology.

Teaching & learning

This qualification is driven by both coursework and practical attainment, enabling you to acquire and demonstrate the skills, knowledge and behaviours required of a Merchant Navy Officer.

You will learn using blended learning techniques in both the classroom and workshops. You will also benefit from visits and Enrichment strategies that will be enhanced by our collaboration with Warsash Maritime School at Solent University.

Minimum entry requirements

Four GCSEs at grade 5 and above to include:
•    English Language
•    Maths
•    Science (to include physical science content)

Pre-cadets will be required to be in full uniform for all classes. 

Please note, that progression to the Merchant Navy will depend on you passing the Merchant Navy Medical. (ENG1) Full information will be provided at enrolment.

Course structure

• Steer a large vessel through major ports using our £1m shipping simulator.
• Select a pathway into the shipping industry from several different career options.
• Access industry-standard workshops with professional-level tools.
• Gain a detailed introduction to the maritime industry and understand important shipboard operations.
• Benefit from essential knowledge related to nautical science

What can I do with this qualification?

This programme is specially designed for people seeking a cadetship with a shipping company who will sponsor your Foundation Degree cadetship.

You will be expected to secure your sponsor yourself.  However, from day one your teachers will help and support you in this quest.

Your eventual sponsor will then fully fund your three-year Cadetship at Warsash Maritime School, during which you will receive a salary.

Please be aware that progression into the Merchant Navy with a sponsor will be dependent on you passing a Merchant Navy Medical.

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