Over 30 cadets graduate from UKSA’s Superyacht Cadetship
It’s been double the celebrations at UKSA, the non-profit maritime training charity, as the largest ever number of cadets have graduated from its flagship course – the Superyacht Cadetship, according to Marine Industry News.
Thirty four graduates, aged 18-25, have completed the first phase of the five-phase programme. One third of the students have already secured roles, with the other graduates now actively seeking employment in the superyacht industry. The four-year programme is a career path to Officer of the Watch (Yacht <3000GT) and onward to Master (Yacht <3000GT) qualification and combines both academic studies interspersed with periods of paid work on superyachts. Cadets can also complete an HNC in Operational Yacht Science with Falmouth Marine School.
The number of cadets graduating is the highest in UKSA’s 30+ year history and meant two graduation ceremonies were held. The ceremonies were attended by the students’ close family and friends, UKSA staff, and the funding partners that made the professional course a viable option for 50% of this year’s cohort. Funding for the cadets came from sources including Seafarers UK, Trinity House, TK Foundation, Steven Thomas Bursary, Will Black Fund, and Noel Lister Memorial Fund.
The course is said to be a credible alternative to university and, for many, the opportunity to earn while they learn is an appealing choice.
“I didn’t feel as though university was for me,” says Cadet Harry Stubbs. “Due to my background in sailing and love of the outdoors, I wanted to do something in that field of work. I knew instantly that the Cadetship was for me: the career prospects, the qualifications and the opportunity to work whilst travelling. I’m extremely grateful to everyone at UKSA and to Trinity House for kindly giving me a bursary, providing me with this amazing opportunity.”
The funding options that are available to UKSA students are crucial for many in securing their places on the course.