Cowes Harbour Commission (CHC) is proud to announce an exciting new partnership with the Corporation of Trinity House to offer a fully sponsored Merchant Navy cadetship.
This programme aims to provide a life-changing opportunity for a young person from the local Cowes area, to take the next step towards a maritime career becoming a qualified officer in the industry.
Investing in the future of maritime careers
CHC has long been committed to encouraging young people to consider careers at sea, through sponsorships with the UKSA SeaChange programme. Now, with this new collaboration, CHC will support a cadet all the way through to an internationally recognised professional qualification, and the first step towards becoming a Captain or Chief Engineer in the Merchant Navy or private sector.
Trinity House, an approved Officer Cadet Management Organisation, will oversee the full management and administration of cadets throughout their training, ensuring a structured and professional route into the maritime industry.
The programme is offered through their Merchant Navy Scholarship Scheme (MNSS) and JustBeMaritime (JBM), working in partnership with CHC.
A fully funded pathway to a maritime career
The cadetship, jointly funded by CHC and Trinity House, offers a fully sponsored three-year programme, including:
- Training phases at an approved UK nautical college and practical sea placements on a variety of vessels.
- A bursary throughout the cadetship, ensuring financial support for the candidate.
- Three qualification routes: Higher National Diploma (HND), Foundation Degree (FD), or Bachelor of Science (BSc), all leading to the Officer of the Watch (OOW) Certificate.
- The option to top up to a full degree after completing the HND route.
- Official recognition as a Yeoman of Trinity House, granting career guidance and networking opportunities within the maritime sector.
Entry requirements and application process
To be eligible, candidates must:
- Have at least four GCSEs (grade 4 or higher), including Maths, Science (preferably Physics), and English.
- Or meet the UCAS entry requirements for FD (48 points) or BSc (104 points) courses.
- Pass the ENG1 medical examination.
- Ideally be aged 18 at the start of the cadetship in September 2025 (applications may be considered for those turning 18 before their first sea phase).
- Currently reside in Cowes, East Cowes or the local area, with a focus on supporting those who may not otherwise have access to such opportunities.
Candidates will undergo a selection process, including an interview with representatives from both CHC and Trinity House.
A unique opportunity for local young people
This initiative represents a significant step forward in CHC’s mission to support the next generation of maritime professionals. By providing local young people with a fully funded pathway into the industry, CHC is reinforcing its commitment to Cowes’ maritime heritage and future workforce.
Applications for the cadetship will open soon. For more information, visit Cowes Harbour Commission’s website or follow us on our social media channels for updates.
News shared by Rachael on behalf of Cowes Harbour Commission. Ed
