Comprehensive Five-Year Review of Seafarer Training Syllabus for Future-Ready Skills

New Review of Maritime Training Standards Announced

A comprehensive review of the UK maritime training syllabus has been initiated, spearheaded by the Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA) in collaboration with industry partners. This initiative aims to ensure that training remains of the highest quality and is aligned with future needs.

The MCA has secured support for mandatory revisions of the UK syllabus every five years, compelling training centres to equip students with contemporary skills essential for safe and successful careers at sea. The latest version of the syllabus has been in place since September 2025, with upcoming modifications to be integrated into newly developed electronic Training Record Books (eTRBs) and digital assessments.

These updates will incorporate advancements in technology, elevated safety standards, and improved operational practices, reflecting the evolving landscape of maritime work.

Collaboration with Industry Stakeholders

This initiative is rooted in the MCA-led Cadet Training and Modernisation (CT&M) Programme, which unites key stakeholders committed to enhancing seafarer training. The Oversight Committee of the CT&M Programme, responsible for setting the programme’s strategic direction and reporting to the Maritime Minister, has endorsed the five-year review.

Additionally, the syllabus sub-group within the CT&M Programme, which convenes quarterly to assess training modules, has been expanded to include a broader representation of shipping companies, training providers, and industry bodies.

The next iteration of the syllabus is anticipated to be implemented in 2030, following its distribution to training centres in 2029.

Focus on Modernisation and Safety

Launched in 2021, the CT&M Programme aims to ensure that maritime education evolves in line with modern technologies and practices. MCA Chief Examiner Ajit Jacob emphasised the importance of equipping seafarers with the necessary skills for safe operations, stating:

“Seafarers are the lifeblood of the UK’s maritime economy, so it is critical we ensure they are equipped with the skills to work safely and successfully. Reviewing the syllabus every five years means we can move with the times – keeping up with the accelerating changes in vessel technology and quickly learning vital safety lessons to keep our crews from harm and protect the environment.”

Industry Insights on Training Needs

Kevin Gregory, Director of the Merchant Navy Training Board (MNTB), commented on the evolving nature of maritime training: “At the heart of every safe and successful voyage are seafarers trained to the highest standards. However, as vessel technologies, alternative fuels, and safety, environmental, and regulatory requirements evolve, the skills needed at sea are changing rapidly.”

He added that this collaborative review process is a significant step towards ensuring UK seafarer training remains relevant and practical, thereby supporting successful careers for seafarers and upholding the UK’s esteemed reputation for world-class maritime training.

Background of the CT&M Programme

The CT&M Programme draws upon recommendations from the Seafarer and Cadet Training Review, which was commissioned by the Maritime Skills Commission in 2021. This review brought together various stakeholders, including the MNTB, nautical colleges, and unions, all focused on enhancing seafarer training. It marks a pioneering effort, as it is believed to be the first instance where a maritime regulator has collaborated with industry experts to shape training in such a manner.

While the MCA does not conduct training, it plays a vital role in overseeing the maintenance of standards through assessments of seafarers and regular audits of training providers.

Contact Information for Media Inquiries

For press inquiries, please contact the MCA press office via email at public.relations@mcga.gov.uk or call 0203 817 2222, available Monday to Friday from 9am to 5pm. For urgent media queries outside these hours or on weekends and bank holidays, please send an email with #Urgent in the subject line.