Seafarer cadets can continue to benefit from financial support for their training up until spring 2026 thanks to a 12-month funding extension unlocked through the Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA).
A multi-million-pound budget, awarded to the Support for Maritime Training (SMarT) fund, gives support to cadets as well as additional help for junior officers.
Under SMarT, sponsoring companies can continue to claim up to half of the total training costs for eligible trainees.
A six-month extension to the original September 2024 deadline guaranteed increased funding until the end of March 2025.
Now, inspired by the initiative's ongoing success, funding has been secured for a further 12-month period and will be available until 31 March 2026.
The funds provide further financial support to those who want to progress in the maritime industry by, for example, supporting self-funded UK junior officers to complete a Management Level Certificate of Competency.
The aim is to increase UK seafarers, drive recruitment by encouraging men and women to consider a career in maritime, and to create opportunities for new companies to access the scheme.
Ajit Jacob, MCA Chief Examiner and Head of Seafarer Technical Delivery, said:
SMarT funding provides strong support both for the careers of seafarer cadets and vital skills for the maritime industry, so this extension is very welcome.
We hope this extra support continues to attract men and women who might not have considered a maritime career. Unlocking access to comprehensive, thorough training benefits everyone, and I hope even more people take advantage.
