ENTRY ROUTES

So far as the merchant navy is concerned, it is envisaged that:

1.      training schemes incorporating a Foundation Degree will become the mainstream entry for those who are recruited and trained as officer cadets (i.e. individuals who are committed to going to sea from the outset but who may progress in different directions at a later stage of their careers);

2.      alternative training programmes will continue to be available for:

-          those sections of the industry where degree-level programmes are not appropriate and to provide an entry route for potential officers and ratings who have the right attributes, motivation and ambition to succeed but not the academic standard appropriate for Foundation Degree entry;

-          individuals holding relevant qualifications obtained prior to entry, including graduates and engineering apprentices;

-          serving seafarers seeking to upgrade their skills and qualifications;

3.      an under-graduate entry route based on the more traditional form of three-year Honours degrees will continue to be offered to any individuals who are attracted to a career in the maritime sector but who are not committed from the outset to employment at sea. More …