Maritime Foundation programme

with UKSA

	, Cowes, Isle of Wight
	Start date: 2026-09-01
	Duration: 2 years
	No Salary: Training Course
	Course duration: 2 years
	Hours of work: 4 days a week minimum
	Lunch included
	Training provided

Want to learn more about this awesome gap year?

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We don't just offer certification and training, as a youth maritime charity, we can offer that something extra. We really look after our young people. Our careers students benefit from mentoring, access to our careers network, realistic careers advice and help with CVs. We have a fantastic fleet, a waterfront 4-acre campus, inspirational instructors, and great facilities.

Course Highlights

what makes this gap year memorable

Course overview
✔ 2-year programme â€“ 4 days a week minimum attendance
✔ Study programmes ran in conjunction with the Isle of Wight College
✔ Gain and develop essential skills valued by employers
✔ Further career progression opportunities within the maritime sector
✔ Industry knowledge and guidance
✔ Practical learning in a maritime centre of excellence
✔ While on site take advantage of UKSAâ€™s indoor heated swimming pool, gym, and study areas

Course Description

a typical day on this gap project

UKSA's two-year, fully funded Maritime Foundation NCFE programme is an ideal alternative to school or sixth form college for 16'18-year-olds looking to escape the traditional classroom and gain valuable work-related experience. The course is aimed at those who have no prior experience in watersports or yachting and provides the essential skills, qualifications, and knowledge required to start a career within the maritime industry.

On completion of this course, students gain the experience and qualifications to apply for various job opportunities within the maritime sectors. These can include watersport instruction, superyachts, merchant navy, workboats, and fisheries, in roles such as instructor, mate, deckhand or deck officer.

Would you be a good fit?

the requirements for this course

Prerequisites:
- 16-18 years
- A minimum of four Grade 3 and above GCSEs including English and Maths
- An interest or experience in watersports, outdoor education, or the maritime industry
- Successful interview at UKSA

There are no other pre-requisites necessary to start the course but it may be beneficial to attend an open day at UKSA. learn more about the courses on offer, meet UKSA's team, see the campus facilities, and get a feel for what life would be like as a future UKSA student. Contact UKSA to book.
*18th April
*16th May
*27th June

What can we offer you?

why choose us for your gap year

This course is fully-funded as part of a full-time 16-18 year-old further education (FE) programme. On completion of this course, students gain the experience and qualifications to apply for various job opportunities within the maritime sectors. These can include watersport instruction, superyachts, merchant navy, workboats, and fisheries, in roles such as instructor, mate, deckhand or deck officer.