Transformational opportunities for careers

Transformational opportunities for careers
I want to
live life.
www.uksa.org
UKSA has a global reputation for educational
excellence, and is known for offering
transformational opportunities over and above
the qualifications our students get on paper.
If you have a career at sea in mind, we can
offer you the educational qualifications you
will need for success in today’s modern, vibrant
and growing global on-the-water industry.
We focus on the individual, on the personal
development and growth of everyone who
takes part in courses with us, and we shape the
learning around the individual, not the other
way round.
We are developing our impressive curriculum
to give our students the freedom to tailor their
training to suit their own needs and ambitions,
and our industry experts will help you make
informed choices about your qualifications
and future career path.
Our commitment to you starts at entry level
and continues throughout each and every
course – we treat people well and offer a
welcoming and nurturing environment.
This makes us one of the world’s premier
maritime training providers, as this all-inclusive
ethos goes hand-in-hand with our outstanding
fleet, purpose-built facilities, inspirational tutors
and unrivalled industry guidance.
We work hard to ensure that our students
get the most out of the outstanding study
opportunities available at UKSA and we are
proud of all we offer at our waterside campus
here in Cowes on the Isle of Wight – a town
internationally known as a centre of sailing
excellence.
Your UKSA experience will give you the
transferable skills, such as teamwork,
independence and leadership, that employers
really want.
This will arm you with a distinct advantage as
you enter this diverse, exciting and challenging
industry, or any other global careers market.
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The UKSA difference
About us
History of UKSA
What could I be?
Our unique environment
Getting started
Case studies
Superyacht Cadetship
Professional Yachtmaster Training (Offshore/Ocean)
Superyacht Crew Training
Yacht Engineer Training
Superyacht Interior Training
Watersports
Frequently asked questions
Getting to UKSA
I want to get to the top
in my career, as high as
possible in the industry
and UKSA is the best
route into it.
Matthew Dykes, cadet
The UKSA
difference
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We give people a fantastic
experience and take them through
the process to show them the
incredible opportunities available.
We provide a unique environment
and transformational opportunities
for everyone, focusing on both
practical and life skills. This is
how we do it.
About us
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Entry Point
Foundation Training
Career Courses
We get people ready for work
Taster sessions – The UKSA journey can start at
age eight, when children come along for taster
sessions and short courses. These could have
been booked by their parents, or they could
have come along as part of a school group. They
have the time of their life and an experience
they will never forget. It gives them a positive
memory and enhances their childhood whether
they sail again or not. It shows them there is
more to life than what they have previously
experienced.
At this point our students have decided they
want a life on the water. They want exhilaration,
excitement and something that is an alternative
to the traditional career routes. They want
recognised qualifications and for it to lead
somewhere. They want to have practical
experience, gain life skills, learn to be a leader
and learn to work in a team. They want likeminded people to help guide them towards
a job at the end of it. They might not know
exactly which course to sign up for, but UKSA
can help direct them towards something that
suits their requirements.
UKSA has a diverse range of exciting career
courses to choose from, accredited by RYA
and MCA. Some are modular, so you can take
the parts you need (schedule permitting).
Our courses include:
UKSA does more than just put people through
the courses. We offer 1:1 mentoring, help our
students to prepare impressive CVs and offer
realistic advice and knowledge about the
industry they are moving towards. As a leading
training provider, UKSA offers educational
excellence and transformational opportunities.
By working closely with leading crew agents,
yacht captains, maritime organisations and with
the advantage of our own in-house placement
service, our graduates are now employed in all
areas of the sector. Our relationship with our
students is on-going, as they often come back
and top up their training, or use our placement
service to find the next step in their exciting
career.
Our life-changing short courses for young
people – People arrive at UKSA through all kinds
of programmes. They could be inner city kids
selected for their incredible leadership skills, or
they could come from a top public school on
a residential trip. They could be unemployed
and on one of our Back to Work programmes,
or they could be having fun on a gap year
while pondering their career. All these people
experience UKSA in different ways but all enjoy
their sessions with our friendly instructors,
the unforgettable on-water experiences, the
food and accommodation we provide, and the
introduction to sailing and watersports which
could lead to an exciting future…
Specific Courses – These students could be
topping up existing skills or choosing to add
specific qualifications to their CV. Maybe they
are aged 16-18 and on a BTEC curriculum
course, or perhaps they are here as part of the
Duke of Edinburgh Award, or they could be on
an advanced RYA course. All our students get
continual advice, guidance and support into the
pathways of their choice. They learn that there
are many pathways to choose from.
One option is to take our Maritime Foundation
Course, which gives students an insight into
the industry and the training routes available.
This five day programme includes water based
activities, plus visits from industry experts and
a chance to listen and ask questions about the
marine sector. Students will spend time looking
at different training routes and programmes,
which will prove an excellent introduction to
UKSA and what we offer. There will also be
career advice sessions and specific industry
guidance. Plan your future, the way you want
it to be.
Through sailing and
watersports, UKSA
gives young people
a purpose and
ultimately can help
turn leisure pursuits
into careers.
Superyacht Cadetship – Train to be an officer
on the largest superyachts. Three-year course
with paid placements, leading towards Officer
of the Watch 3000gt.
Professional Yachtmaster – Our newly
packaged course offers more flexibility than
ever before depending on your skill level,
timescale, goals and budget. Encompassing
basic training, Yachtmaster core training
and advanced training.
Superyacht Crew Training – An entry level
course so you can acquire the skills and
experience needed to work as a deckhand
on luxury sail or motor yachts.
Superyacht Engineer Training – An entry
level course so you can acquire the skills and
experience needed to work as a dual deckhand/
engineer or junior engineer on luxury sail or
motor yachts.
Yacht Engineer Training – Gain qualifications
to start a career as a junior engineer, either
afloat or in a shore-based capacity.
Superyacht Interior Foundation – Qualify as a
steward or stewardess with the skills to deliver
exceptional standards of service onboard.
Superyacht Interior Intermediate – Top up
your existing skills to take your career further
within the highly professional superyacht
industry.
Superyacht Cookery Intermediate – Top up
your existing cookery qualifications and become
a crew cook or yacht chef.
Watersports Instructor – Become a professional
instructor and work in the world’s top resorts
and centres.
We offer an evolving These are just some of our courses. Please see
curriculum and wide our website for full listings www.uksa.org
choice of courses with
different entry and
exit points, depending
on your skill level,
timescale, goal
and budget.
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The charity’s founder, Noel Lister, was born in
1927. After completing his education he went
straight into a six-year signing with the Army,
where his entrepreneurial spirit was already
apparent on a troop ship to Egypt towards the
end of WWII when he traded cigarettes and did
a ‘tea round’ selling tea to other soldiers too
lazy to make their own in the heat.
Back on home soil, he entered the world of
retail by working in a furniture store. He was
such a strong character the shop owner said he
would either end up in prison or turn up one
day in a Rolls Royce. Noel knew which path to
take, left the business, and four years later, sure
enough, he pulled up in his Roller.
He built up his own furniture business,
popularising the concept of a dining room
suite by selling tables with matching chairs,
and introducing bunk beds to the family home
(things that hadn’t been widely done before).
This entrepreneurial spirit and constant reevaluation of what works best led him to a
fortune when his empire grew and he set up
furniture giant MFI – launching the concept of
shed retailing and out-of-town shopping while
essentially inventing the concept of flat pack
self-assembly furniture (even hiring out roof
racks so customers had no excuse not to buy
that very day!).
How UKSA came about is a wonderful
story of entrepreneurial spirit
combined with a true desire to
introduce young people to the joys
of sailing.
Noel was a bold adventurer and pretty
fearless. He campaigned his racing yachts over
many years during the time he ran MFI and
accumulated a large amount of silverware
against top national and international
competition in RORC races, Fastnet etc.
After an exhilarating and life-changing career as
a retail genius he sold MFI for an extraordinary
sum of money at the age of 58 and further
indulged his passion for sailing, spending a
good decade or so sailing around the world
with his wife Sylvia on their beloved 103ft boat,
Whirlwind XII. He was not at all interested
in Mediterranean glamour - his favourite
destination was Alaska where he could enjoy
being chased by grizzlies.
While sailing the world he had time to reflect
on his wonderful life – and he knew he wanted
to give something back. Sylvia explained: ‘He
would say, ‘I can’t have all this money and not
let children enjoy the sea as much as we do.’ He
knew he wanted to find a way of giving children
confidence, and he felt a great way to do this
would be to give them the opportunity to get
out onto the water. His whole aim was to give
disabled or disadvantaged children the chance
to go sailing, and this idea just seemed to grow.’
History
of UKSA
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Mike Koppstein was Noel’s yacht captain,
so he was with the businessman right at
the beginning of UKSA, when the idea of
establishing a charity first came about.
Mike explained: ‘Noel always had the idea of
making sailing accessible to under-privileged
children. It came through his experience of the
teamwork of sailing and he felt strongly that
it was something everyone should be able to
experience.
‘Noel was quite a shy unassuming person,
and sailing made him feel comfortable. He
understood his own limitations in his shyness
and saw how the sailing environment made him
more sociable. It bought the gamesmanship and
confidence out of him.
‘In founding UKSA, the priority for him was to
make an initial charitable donation but then for
it to be run as a business. He was always very
creative in making a pound go further while
cleverly creating some income – so it was not
just about giving money, but about making
UKSA run proficiently.’
Noel had raced in Cowes for years and when the
opportunity arose to buy a waterfront centre
from the Sports Council in October 1987 he
knew it would be perfect.
He invested £4 million in the Lister Charitable
Trust to start the place afresh, and he applied
his entrepreneurial principles to setting up the
charity.
Of great importance over recent years has
been the transition from being a provider of
maritime activities and training to one with
a much more sophisticated focus on personal
development as the context for these activities.
Recognising individuals’ needs, challenges
and potential, and supporting them through
mentoring into career paths and social worth,
is what it is all about. Now, as a globally
recognised leading youth charity, UKSA helps
more people than ever before.
Noel is now in his 80s but he and his family are
still very involved with UKSA, helping to make
sure it remains true to Noel’s original ethos.
Sylvia said: ‘The whole thing makes us both very
proud. I think it is brilliant as it gives children
a chance in life. UKSA was Noel’s No.1 passion,
definitely.’
Noel was awarded the Lifetime Achievement
Award at the World Superyacht Awards in
2010 – the first time a still-living yachtsman
has been chosen. It was absolutely typical of
Noel that, being a modest man, he couldn’t see
what all the fuss was about and refused to go
to the ceremony. Sylvia and the family did, and
collected a handsome award on his behalf.
In the early days there were 60 beds and plenty
of dinghies but no yachts, but it was busy with
1,500 children a year taking part in activities.
The initial goal was to increase this operation
by buying more kit to enable more schools to
come along.
With the growth in leisure holidays too,
it became apparent that there were job
opportunities for young people within the
watersports industry, so UKSA looked into
providing instructor training courses.
The courses extended the operational arm
of the charity, brought in income and helped
young people set off on careers. It also kept the
centre busy all year round, instead of closing for
winter like it did in the early days.
Later, the yacht training courses were
established in response to a gap in the
market and a need, all around the world, for
experienced crew for the growing superyacht
industry.
Mike explained: ‘I came up with the idea of
setting up Superyacht Crew Training, because as
far as we knew there was nothing else offering
that. To the best of our knowledge we were very
much the first. Before that, there were purely
academic captains’ courses, nothing blending
the theory with the practical. If there were
others, they were not formalised as ours was.
The curriculum was wisely shaped in detail by
Ben Cussons and attendance subsequently grew
– and the rest is modern history.’
Over the years, UKSA expanded by buying
yachts, purchasing the hotel over the road
(now Victory) to accommodate career students,
building a swimming pool in 1993 and opening
the Lister House accommodation block in 2003.
HRH Princess Royal became patron in 1992 –
the Royal seal of approval.
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Superyacht Deckhand
Yacht Steward/ess
Delivery Skipper
The exciting superyacht industry relies on
skilled deckhands who keep the world’s
most luxurious boats looking stunning. You’ll
travel the world and enjoy a work-hard playhard lifestyle. You’ll have to demonstrate a
professional and hardworking attitude at all
times, but you’ll earn a great wage (often with
generous tips on top!)
If you’re a tireless perfectionist who appreciates
the finer things in life, this role is just right for
you. Your daily responsibilities will be varied,
from cleaning, laundry and flower arranging,
to serving intricate canapes and extravagant
cocktails to guests.
Agencies and delivery companies are always on
the lookout for skilled sailors to deliver yachts,
and the more qualified, reliable and mature you
are, the more appealing you’ll be. You’ll need
to prove you can be trusted to ensure the very
highest level of care is taken for the yacht you’re
delivering. You’ll be a safe and competent sailor,
professional at all times and meticulous in your
attention to detail.
This role will be an incredible launchpad to your
amazing career.
‘Life as a deckhand is hard work and something
you have to be really passionate about, but
I get such a buzz every time I’m out on the sea,
it’s great.
It’s a very sociable profession too, so you have to
have the right personality and be able to get on
with people easily. I just want to be out on the
sea all the time, learning new skills and getting
more and more experience.’
Sam Sessions, Yachting Cadetship
Superyacht Captain
‘Even though it’s stressful
and a lot of hard work,
it’s amazing and I love it.’
As a superyacht captain you’ll be at the top
of your game and in a job many can only
dream of. You’ll be responsible not only for
the yacht itself, but also for its crew, itinerary
and navigating safe passages across the
oceans. You’ll be in control of budgeting,
administration, refit projects, yard visits,
personnel, health and safety, to name but a
few. It’ll take time and commitment to work
your way up the deck officer ladder to this
all-encompassing role, but we’ll help you get
started, and will continue to support and guide
you every step of the way.
Yacht Engineer
Yacht engineers ensure the smooth running of
all the vital systems and equipment – from the
electrics, plumbing and general maintenance
to the refrigerators, air conditioning and
the onboard Jet Skis. With a shortage of
professionally qualified engineers, job prospects
are good, and career progression and pay scales
are excellent.
‘I’m a yacht engineer based on a Mangusta 108’
Twin Turbine with water jets – what a piece of
kit! I’m still buzzing after having the chance
to play with jet fighter turbines, and on top of
that, during my first day off work, I watched the
Monaco Grand Prix from the middle of harbour.
Not bad for my first week on the job!’
James Richard, Engineering
Working long hours to fulfil your guests every
desire to a faultless standard, you’ll need to be
enthusiastic and energetic, but your hard work
will be rewarded with a great salary and you’ll
travel to the world’s most exotic locations.
‘I’ve been working non stop since I arrived in
the Med and the guests aren’t even on board
yet!!! Even though it’s a lot of hard work, it’s
amazing and I love it.’
Chrissie Brain, Superyacht Interior Training
Watersports Instructor
Bring your dream to life and spend your days
doing something you love. Spend long days out
on the water, watching your students improve
and develop their skills under your expert
guidance. This rewarding role will suit your
fun-loving, energetic personality and you will
love meeting enthusiastic new faces on every
course. You’ll get to spend plenty of time in the
sunshine and in the water, inspiring people and
passing your knowledge onto others. You’ll also
need to plan lessons, maintain your equipment,
provide excellent customer service and make
sure your students are safe. Best of all, this job
can be done in stunning and exotic locations
around the world!
Flotilla Skipper
Keep busy in the varied, exciting and
challenging role of flotilla skipper – while
enjoying plenty of beautiful locations, endless
hours of sunshine and great sailing conditions.
Your responsibilities will include giving safety
and technical briefings, general maintenance,
budgeting and provisioning, assisting your
guests with sailing, setting up the fleet and
laying up.
You’ll enjoy a flexible lifestyle that’s constantly
challenging and always rewarding, and as you
build on your experience, you can travel around
the world on a variety of different yachts.
Racing Crew
A career as part of a professional race crew is
dreamt of by many, but realised by just a few.
Competition for positions onboard racing yachts
is tough – networking is key so you’ll need to be
confident, outgoing and flexible, making sure
it’s you who’s always seen in all the right places.
Racing yachts will be looking for exceptional
candidates so you’ll need to develop your
current skills and gain as many qualifications
as you can.
Yachting Instructor
You’ll be a confident sailor with a love of
the water and will enjoy inspiring groups of
students through your own passion for sailing.
Your teaching style will be engaging and patient,
encouraging your students to not only learn to
sail a yacht with confidence, but also to work as
part of a team. You’ll be constantly promoting
strong communication between your students
onboard and will instill the importance of safety
in all those you teach. There are sailing schools
all around the world, so you’ll have the option
to work locally or travel and teach abroad.
Charter Skipper
Whether you’re thinking about buying a yacht
and setting up your own charter business, or
would like to skipper for a private owner or
existing company, becoming a charter skipper
can be a rewarding career choice. You’ll be
responsible for all aspects of the operation,
maintenance and general management of the
yacht, from provisioning for your journey and
delivering to budget, to cleaning and routine
servicing.
What could I be?
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Our lecture team includes leading figureheads
from the maritime world, chosen for their ability
to teach complex and specialist subjects to the
highest possible level.
Cowes is a world renowned sailing and
watersports centre, home of the world’s most
famous international regatta and synonymous
with sporting excellence. UKSA is located right
on the waterfront.
Our 3.5 acre waterside base is fully residential,
offering a variety of accommodation including
a choice of comfortable single and twin-bedded
en-suite rooms, with satellite TV channels,
internet access and telephone. We have modern
lecture rooms and conference facilities.
Our technology department features a range of
marine workshops fitted for practical sessions
in boat and engine diagnostics and repair. Our
£200,000 Transas Simulator is a valuable virtual
learning environment for improving navigation
skills. Here you can practice your command
skills, navigate in all weathers and learn about
radar systems.
Leisure time is important too! Our facilities
include an indoor heated swimming pool, a
fully licensed bar and lounge area with satellite
TV, a cafe with waterside views, a self-service
restaurant and dining area, an on-site shop, a
cyber cafe, outdoor seating and sundeck area,
plus access to local gym facilities.
Our £200,000 Transas
Simulator is a valuable virtual
learning environment for
improving navigation skills.
UKSA’s fleet includes a wide and diverse range
of yachts, chosen for their different handling
features – giving students plenty of invaluable
experience. The core of our fleet is based
around our 34ft to 65ft yachts which are ideally
suited to handling under power and sail. Our
extensive fleet of matched keelboats are ideal
for developing sailing skills and helping to
make the transition to yacht command.
Our unique
environment
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UKSA Open Days
Maritime Foundation Course
Follow us
We hold regular open days so potential
students can come and see for themselves our
facilities, fleet and fabulous location. Meet the
lecture team and shore-side staff, explore our
accommodation and find out how to kick-start
your career.
One option is to take our Maritime Foundation
Course, which gives students an insight into
the industry and the training routes available.
This five day programme includes water based
activities, plus visits from industry experts and
a chance to listen and ask questions about the
marine sector. Students will spend time looking
at different training routes and programmes,
which will prove an excellent introduction to
UKSA and what we offer. There will also be
career advice session and specific industry
guidance. Plan your future, the way you
want it to be.
Keep up-to-date with all our course information
and latest news by visiting our website
www.uksa.org and following us on Facebook
and Twitter (search for uksasailing). Check
our website for details about our frequent
open days, or call to speak to our friendly
and knowledgeable course advisors on
+44 (0)1983 203038 to discuss the options
suitable for you. If you prefer to email your
questions, email us at advice@uksa.org
Come along and find out why UKSA is such
a popular choice with students from across
the world. Meet our industry experts who can
help tailor a specific training programme for
your chosen career path. Learn about different
routes into international yachting, watersports
and other exciting on-water avenues.
Listen to presentations on all aspects of UKSA
career training, explore our training facilities,
take advantage of some one-to-one guidance
and advice, and enjoy a free lunch.
Details of our open days can be found on our
website. We are now booking for our next open
days, so reserve yourself a space and take that
important first step towards the career of your
choice.
The yachting industry needs you!
The modern global superyacht
sector is evolving at an astonishing
pace, driving an international
demand for professionally trained
skippers and crew such as UKSA
graduates.
If you are unable to make the open days, please
phone to arrange an independent appointment.
Our course advisors will be happy to help, on
+44 (0)1983 203038.
Getting started
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11
Oliver Whitten
Matthew Dykes
Josh Ryan
Sea cadets got Oliver Whitten dreaming about
a yachting career, and after researching
thoroughly he decided UKSA was the place to
make his dream come true.
Captaining superyachts is what Matthew Dykes
wants to do with his life – and at the tender
age of 17 he won a bursary to fund a three-year
superyacht cadetship with UKSA.
The 21-year-old, of Grimsby, will be set for a
career at sea after his three years with UKSA.
The 18-year-old from Dunstable applied for a
Trinity House bursary, knowing that if he didn’t
qualify, he would have to work for a couple of
years to fund the course himself.
Schooled and brought up in Tenerife, Matthew
spent a lot of time out on the water and
fast learned to appreciate the benefits of an
exhilarating on-water lifestyle.
Such was his determination to do the cadetship,
there was no plan b for an alternative career.
Ultimately, this passion and determination
shone through in the rigorous interview and
selection process.
He was researching different ways to fund a
superyacht cadetship programme when he
found out what UKSA had to offer.
He said: ‘I have a sense of adventure and want
to be working on something I love doing.
I started sailing on lakes and then got into
racing, and I sailed pretty much every weekend
to get a load of experience.’
His dedication paid off and Oliver was granted
the funding.
He found out about the UKSA superyacht
cadetship course, which offers industry
guidance and careers advice as well as a
respected qualification, and he decided to
apply for a bursary to fund it.
As well as the qualification, he realised he
would be guided by industry experts towards
all the big hirers of superyacht crews.
He was granted the funding, worth £25,000,
and will now work towards a career on the
world’s largest superyachts (UKSA is a market
leader in placing superyacht staff).
Life at UKSA would offer three years of study,
accommodation, food, friendship and career
guidance.
He said: ‘I would love to work on superyachts
so it would be great to get into the industry
and work my way up.
He said: ‘I am passionate about the boating
industry and am out on the water all the time.
UKSA seemed ideal for me.
‘This course will give me the tools I need for a
life out on the water. None of my family have
ever sailed but a school trip to go dinghy sailing
sparked an interest and I can’t wait to get
started on my course now.’
‘I want to get to the top in my career, as high as
possible in the industry and UKSA is the best
route into it.’
We sometimes have bursaries
available to help young people
onto our courses. Deserving
potential students should enquire
about the different options.
A school trip doing dinghy sailing sparked a
desire to make a career at sea for 20-year-old
Josh Ryan.
‘I started studying philosophy at
university, but after nearly two
terms I decided it wasn’t for me.
I wanted to live life, not read
others’ opinions of it.’
Case studies
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Superyacht Cadetship
Prerequisite experience:
Superyacht Cadetship Benefits
The superyacht cadetship is designed to provide
a structured progression through the RYA
Yachting scheme to MCA Deck Officer training
leading to the MCA Officer of the Watch (3000gt)
Certificate of Competence. This qualifies you
to work on an unrestricted worldwide basis as
Captain of yachts up to 200gt, Chief Mate up to
500gt and Officer of the Watch of superyachts
up to 3000gt.
Applicants should be between 18 and 25. To
apply for the training, you need to attend a twoday selection event where you will be required
to demonstrate a strong, proven interest in a
career in the superyacht industry, and pass a
UKSA Cadetship interview.
• Gain the qualifications needed to work on the
world’s superyachts
It is also possible to complete a FdSc
(Foundation Degree) in Operational Yacht
Science alongside the Yachting Cadetship,
providing you have at least 120 UCAS points
at A2 level. If you are over the age of 21, and
you do not have the required UCAS points,
you could be assessed on any work place
learning / training you have done.
Developed in close consultation with the
MCA and their approved training guidelines,
the superyacht cadetship allows the shore-based
element of training to be counted as ‘yacht
time’ towards the total time required. This
means UKSA cadets can complete the whole
programme by combining academic study
and practical paid work placements on a
superyacht.
Earn while you learn
Travel the world
Qualify to degree level
‘I am happy to say that I am
enjoying myself immensely.
There has not been a day where
I have woken up and regretted
what I am doing one bit.’
Cadets should ideally have GCSEs (or equivalent)
in English, Maths and Science, passed with
grades A-C. You must have a good work ethic,
good communication skills both oral and
written are essential, as is a good understanding
of mathematics. A keen interest in marine
sports, and related qualifications would be
advantageous. A professional attitude must
be shown at all times.
Those opting to also complete the Foundation
Degree alongside the Cadetship will require the
UCAS points (or equivalent) above.
• Ideal for school leavers or newly-qualified
university graduates seeking a professional
career in the marine industry
• Periods of practical employment, with up to
two years paid work during the course, greatly
offsetting the cost of training
• Develop your qualifications and skills while
working in the industry on a clearly structured
and supported programme
• Long-term career benefits of higher
qualifications firmly establish your career
prospects for work on the largest vessels
Bursaries available. Ask today.
What’s included:
Includes all food and accommodation during
superyacht cadetship training phases.
The Yachting Cadetship has one intake per year
in October.
You will also receive Industry Guidance sessions
and 1:1 career mentoring.
‘Ultimately, these are crew with integrity,
who are serious about wanting to
learn, progress and make a positive
contribution to their vessel and who
are focused on a long-term career
within the industry.’
Emma Baggett, cadetship/foundation
degree co-ordinator
Lewis Smith, cadet
Superyacht
Cadetship
14
For careers advice contact
Tel. +44(0)1983 203038
15
Professional Yachtmaster Training
UKSA offers Professional Yachtmaster Training,
encompassing both offshore and ocean
elements.
Our varied and flexible courses will equip
you with the training, preparation, practical
experience and qualification for a career at sea.
Whether you want to sail commercial yachts
under 24m for employment opportunities in
flotilla, charter, deliveries and instruction, or
you would prefer to work on large ocean going
yachts, you will find a course that suits you.
To start, no prerequisite experience is necessary.
All that we ask is that you have enough sailing
experience to know that you want a life at sea.
Unique to UKSA are the excellent personal
development opportunities on offer – one-toone career mentoring, our robust assessment
process and guidance towards a job at the end
of the course thanks to our excellent industry
contacts.
Add to this our fantastic facilities and fleet of
yachts, our state-of-the-art Transas simulation
suite, the inspirational instructors you will meet
and the camaraderie you will find among your
fellow sailors – the course will meet your every
requirement and more.
All food and accommodation is included.
Among the qualifications on offer are:
• RYA/MCA Yachtmaster (Offshore) or
Yachtmaster Coastal
• RYA/MCA Yachtmaster Theory
• RYA/MCA Yachtmaster Ocean Theory
Some examples of our courses:
Our Professional Yachtmaster Training is entry
level, but if you do have some experience or
qualifications, please speak to us about modular
options, as we can often tailor our courses to
suit your needs. Whatever your skill level, goal
and budget, ask us today how we can help you.
Our 13 - week course
Professional Yachtmaster (offshore)
You will experience 60 days afloat and a
minimum of 2,500 tidal miles practical
experience in our extensive yacht fleet, plus
all the qualifications you need to gain the
commercially endorsed RYA / MCA Yachtmaster
(Offshore) certificate, giving you a fast and
effective way to enter the industry and start
your career.
Our 23- week course
Professional Yachtmaster (ocean)
You will gain the qualifications, practical sailing
experience and engineering skills required
to work on all types of ocean going yachts.
The course includes three weeks of overseas
experience, during which you will complete at
least one 600-mile passage. You will be able
to command sailing yachts up to 24m, work as
crew on sail and motor yachts up to 3000gt,
or work as an entry level engineer. You will
gain the coveted RYA/MCA Yachtmaster (Ocean)
certificate with commercial endorsement, which
includes preparation towards the MCA Master
200gt (Unlimited) qualification.
Whats included:
Includes all food and accommodation.
You will also receive Industry Guidance sessions
and 1:1 career mentoring
• RYA/MCA Yachtmaster Ocean
• RYA Short Range Radio
• RYA Diesel Engine Maintenance
• RYA Powerboat Level 2 certificate
• MCA STCW Basic Training comprising Personal
Survival Techniques, Elementary First Aid, Fire
Prevention and Fire Fighting, Personal Safety
and Social Responsibilities
• RYA Small Craft Radar
• GMDSS General Operators Certificate
• MCA Approved Engine Course
• RYA Personal Watercraft Proficiency
Professional
Yachtmaster Training
(Offshore /Ocean)
16
For careers advice contact
Tel. +44(0)1983 203038
17
Superyacht Crew Training
This is the ideal entry route course, offering
the simplest and most effective way to gain
employment as a deckhand or crew aboard
yachts of all sizes, including the largest
superyachts. If you want a wealth of travel
opportunities and experiences, this could be
your starting point.
Our Superyacht Crew Training programme is
designed to meet the growing demand for
well-trained professional crew on luxury yachts
and superyachts.
It is ideal for those who are:
Looking to begin a career in the yachting
industry.
Duration:
6 weeks
What’s included:
All food and accommodation
The training includes sailing, seamanship,
navigation, repairs, maintenance afloat, and
safety training, including first aid, sea survival
and short range radio.
Superyacht Crew Training Syllabus
Practical sailing:
Be confident in all aspects of seamanship.
You will gain experience sailing, crewing,
watch keeping and practising seamanship skills
onboard our fleet of 36 - 45ft yachts. Training
aboard one of our 65ft Farrs enhances your
training experience and provides a valuable
introduction to sailing larger yachts.
Superyacht
Crew Training
18
For careers advice contact
Tel. +44(0)1983 203038
19
‘Multi-skilled and qualified
crew are always easier to
place. The combination of
deck and engineering skills
make graduates of this course
a valuable asset to any vessel,
whether in a deckhand or
engineer role.’
We provide a range of engineering courses, so
whether you are looking to start a career as a
junior engineer in the maritime industry or you
want to top up your existing skills with our MCA
accredited courses, find out what we have to
offer you.
Gain internationally recognised skills and
qualifications, useful either afloat or in a
shore-based capacity. With a shortage of
qualified personnel in marine engineering,
salary prospects and job opportunities for
marine engineers are good.
We have a full marine engineering workshop
and the skill set among our instructors to deliver
a wide range of quality training.
Superyacht Engineer Training
Yacht Engineer Training
MCA Approved Engine Course
Our flagship course is the eight-week Superyacht
Engineer Training programme, which provides
internationally recognised entry level
qualifications. Crucially this combines yachting
experience and engineering qualifications,
increasing your chance of employment within
the maritime industry. This is the ideal route
for those looking to start a career as a dual
deckhand/engineer or potential junior engineer
on larger yachts.
UKSA Yacht Engineering Training is a five-day
course that can be taken on its own or as an
enhancement to the AEC course. It focuses
on advancing the basic skills learned during
AEC. Yacht Engineer Training course is ideal
for those seeking an engineering position in
the yachting industry, be it for entry level or
advancement within the industry. In both cases
it provides enhanced skills and knowledge
and demonstrates a commitment to marine
engineering.
The MCA accredited five-day AEC will provide
you with the basic theoretical knowledge and
practical experience of diesel engines. This
course meets the requirements of the Codes
of Practice for the Safety of Large Commercial
Sailing & Motor Vessels, Safety of Small
Commercial Motor Vessels and the Safety of
Small Workboats and Pilot Boats.
Previous engineering experience is not essential,
however candidates with relevant experience
will find a wider range of employment
opportunities available to them.
This course is beneficial for those Marine
Engineers seeking to advance towards Y4 of
the MCA Engineering Officer scheme.
All food and accommodation is included.
Whether you are seeking to enhance your
employability, wanting to increase your
knowledge and skills or to get on the first rung
of the MCA Engineering Training ladder then
we can provide the relevant training in our
dedicated engineering workshop.
UKSA Industry Guidance Co-ordinator
Course content
Hotel services (onboard domestic systems)
Gaining a basic knowledge in refrigeration,
air conditioning systems, water makers, water
treatment and safe storage and sewage systems.
Motors and Power Generation
• Motors, mechanical and electrical
maintenance, starters and protection devices.
• Multi meters and insulation testers.
• Belt driven alternators, rectifiers and battery
chargers.
Yacht
Engineering
Course content
Compression ignition engines – components,
fuel system, combustion, cooling, lubrication,
electrics, power transmission, hull fittings and
legislation/safe work practices.
There are no prerequisites. It is suitable for
all yacht crew from superyacht deckhands to
skippers of smaller vessels and is an excellent
addition for anyone taking one of our yachting
careers courses, such as Crew Training or
Professional Yachtmaster Training.
This course is the first level qualification for
the MCA Engineering Officer training scheme.
When combined with yacht qualifications or
experience, or an engineering background, this
qualification will help in finding work as an
Engineer or Deck/Engineer on superyachts.
• Three-phase diesel powered generation,
distribution, switchboards, paralleling and
synchronizing generators
Hydraulics and Gearboxes
• Safe operation
• Diagnostics and maintenance of hydraulic
systems
• Electro-hydraulic controls
20
For careers advice contact
Tel. +44(0)1983 203038
• Introduction to steering gear
• Windlass and winch systems
21
The world’s luxury yachts provide
the perfect environment in which
to deliver the ultimate standard
of service, often in the world’s
most glamorous locations.
Superyacht Interior Foundation
This PYA accredited course provides aspiring
yacht cooks, stewards and stewardesses with the
skills to deliver exceptional standards of service
onboard luxury vessels. You will be armed with
the skills needed to excel in this environment,
together with the essential STCW safety training
for work onboard. You will also gain valuable
on-the-water experience introducing you to
nautical terminology and safety procedures.
The course also teaches a repertoire of
delicious meals to impress, and will improve
your confidence and enjoyment when catering
for guest and crew. With instruction from
expert chefs and professional yacht crew, the
programme provides a sound knowledge in
basic cookery and preparation skills.
• T rain to a broad and comprehensive syllabus,
delivered by top hospitality and maritime
specialists
•P
repare for a service career with opportunities
to live on luxurious yachts and travel to some
of the most spectacular areas of the globe
• T rain to deliver the level of service to which
most five star hotels aspire
• T ransfer your skills from other hospitalityrelated careers
•D
evelop your ability and passion for delivering
a level of service beyond first class
•H
uge demand for high calibre staff in this
sector
• I ncorporates the popular Superyacht Cookery
Foundation course
Prerequisite experience:
None required
Duration:
Four weeks (Flexible programme option
available)
Hospitality skills (this module must be taken)
Core skills (this module must be taken)
Practical sailing
Superyacht cookery foundation
Qualify for:
Work as steward / stewardess aboard luxury sail
or motor yachts.
What’s included:
Includes all food and accommodation
Upgrade your skills with one of our two new
interior training courses. Our intermediate
courses are perfect for those who want to
improve their skills in the competitive and
exclusive superyacht job market.
These courses have been developed as either a
progression route from our existing Superyacht
Interior Training or are suitable for individuals
with existing on-board or relevant land-based
experience and qualifications.
The new courses will stand you in good stead in
an industry which is getting increasingly more
sophisticated and competitive.
The courses provide you with excellent skill
transfer options for later in life too, such as
running a boutique hotel or working in top-class
establishments around the world.
Superyacht Interior Intermediate
Superyacht Cookery Intermediate
The course maintains UKSA’s position at the
forefront of developing and delivering yacht
crew training. This 15-day higher level course
will be delivered by qualified and experienced
yacht crew and assistants together with
specialist instructors.
The week-long course will be delivered at
the Isle of Wight College Cookery School and
maintains UKSA’s position at the forefront of
developing and delivering yacht crew training.
The aim is to provide students with sound
knowledge and practical skills at higher levels
of competence. These skills will enable students
to consider various employment options in a
galley as a Sole Chef on board private or charter
yachts up to and in the region of 40 metres
or 2nd Chef on board something larger. This
higher level course offers the student excellent
transferable skills in this highly competitive yet
rewarding market.
Course programme:
The course begins with an introduction to UKSA
and the industry guidance we offer. The course
covers the yacht interior and demographics,
administration and systems, safety on board,
human resources and management, personal
presentation, communication, etiquette and
protocol, food and board service, CIEH Level
2 Food Safety in Catering Safety in Catering or
equivalent, housekeeping, valet and laundry,
floristry and plant maintenance.
WSET Level 1 Wine and a Barista Course. RYA
Powerboat level 2 and Proficiency in Medical
Care Onboard Ship are available as extra
training modules. Speak to our course advisors
for further information.
You will also receive Industry Guidance sessions
and 1:1 careers mentoring
Course Programme:
This five-day course will be taught at the
award winning Isle of Wight Cookery School,
delivered by a team of highly qualified chefs
and experienced yacht crew with the occasional
special guest. A maximum of 12 students can
be taught at any one time.
Superyacht Interior
Training
22
For careers advice contact
Tel. +44(0)1983 203038
23
The watersports industry has
seen dramatic changes over the
past decade and is now a thriving
industry around the world. The
result of this is a huge demand for
watersports instructors and the
offer of rewarding long-term career
paths in a variety of stunning
locations around the world.
Watersports
Watersports Instructor Training
Watersports Instructor Development
We can be very flexible with our watersports
courses, so you have the option of taking the
modules individually or as an entire package
combining all three. Our course advisors will
be able to talk you through the options.
For maximum employability, you should train
as an instructor in three watersports disciplines.
At UKSA you can train in dinghy sailing,
paddleboarding and windsurfing, and the
course will give you the qualifications necessary
to embark on a career in the watersports
industry. UKSA is a world leader in instructing
and coaching in watersports, giving you
access to the best equipment and instructors.
Throughout your training you will receive
personal mentoring and in-house Industry
Guidance, and your food and accommodation is
provided, enabling you to concentrate on your
studies. There may be an overseas element to
this course.
This course is ideal for those wanting to
enhance their employment prospects as a
multi disciplined watersports instructor. You
will complete a further eight weeks of training,
gaining valuable instructor endorsement
qualifications as well upgrading your skills to
more advanced levels. Alongside this you will
also gain experience leading sessions at UKSA;
our past students have rated this module as the
best part of their training, and the experience
gained is valued by employers. You will
continue to gain advice and support from our
Industry Guidance and performance mentoring
teams. In addition to this, you will have the
opportunity to be interviewed by staff from
leading watersports employers including Mark
Warner, Neilson and UKSA; giving you the best
possible opportunities for securing employment
at the end of the course.
Kickstart
Whether you have never done any watersports
before, or are simply a little rusty, this course
enables you to hit the ground running at the
start of your training to become a watersports
instructor. The course equips you with some
core watersports skills in dinghy sailing,
windsurfing and paddleboarding, and is the
ideal beginner or refresher course if you are
considering becoming a watersports instructor.
Prerequisite experience:
A minimum of one week’s recent dinghy and
windsurfing experience. If you do not have this
experience, our Kickstart course will get you
up to speed.
Duration:
2 weeks
What’s included:
Includes all food and accommodation.
Duration:
8 weeks
What’s included:
Includes all food and accommodation.
You will also receive Industry Guidance sessions
and 1:1 career mentoring.
Watersports
24
Prerequisite experience:
In order to complete this course you will already
be a multi qualified instructor. You could
gain these qualifications by completing both
Kickstart and Watersports Instructor Training
courses with us.
Duration:
8 weeks
What’s included:
Includes all food and accommodation.
You will also receive Industry Guidance sessions
and 1:1 career mentoring.
For careers advice contact
Tel. +44(0)1983 203038
25
How do I book a career training course?
To secure your place on a career course at
UKSA you will need to pay a 10% deposit. The
final balance is due ten weeks before the start
date of your course. You will need to speak to
your course advisor who will take you through
the booking process over the phone and can
arrange payment with you through card,
cheque or bank transfer.
What’s included in my course fees?
Your course fees include all training and
examinations, certification, logbooks, internet
access, food and accommodation for the
duration of your course.
All Professional Yachtmaster students will be
required to complete Professional Practices
and Responsibilities (PPR) test through the RYA
online. This costs £37.
Flights are included for any overseas elements
to your training.
Exam retakes if required are at an additional
cost.
‘I am sure that in launching
your career with UKSA you
are providing yourself with
a springboard for your
future success.’
HRH The Princess Royal, Patron
Superyacht Interior Intermediate and
Superyacht Cookery Intermediate are nonresidential courses, lunch will be included but
not accommodation. We can provide a list of
local accommodation options if requested.
What happens once I have booked my place
on a course?
Once you’ve secured your place on a course you
will receive full confirmation of your booking
by email and a receipt/invoice through the post.
You will also receive further details on how to
prepare before you course starts.
Are the qualifications guaranteed?
We will provide you with the training and
support above and beyond what’s necessary
to pass exams and assessments, however
you will be required to show high levels of
competence and performance at the right level.
Is there an age restriction on career
training courses?
Students should be over 18 for our yachting
career courses, however on occasion special
exception may be made for those who are
17. Students can start our watersports career
training at 16. As long as students are physically
capable of the demanding nature of our
training, there is no upper age limit.
Who else will be on my course?
Frequently
asked questions
26
The number of students on our yachting
and watersports courses can range from 5 to
40 depending on the training itself, and the
time of year. People to decide to train with
us for a number of reasons; those leaving
school or college and looking to start a career,
those considering a career change, those who
fancy a lifestyle change, those who want to
try something new, and those who just want
to operate their own yacht or equipment
confidently. You can sign up to our Facebook
page to meet other people on your course
before you start training at UKSA.
What do I need to bring with me on my
course?
After booking a course you will receive joining
instructions relevant to your training which will
provide you with details of the specific kit
you’ll need (footwear, oilskins, warm clothing
etc) and the reading material required.
Is there any financial assistance available?
For full details of funding options please talk
to your course advisor who will provide you
with the details of funding options we currently
have available. They will be able to assess your
eligibility and put you forward for funding
opportunities.
Can you guarantee me a job when I finish my
course?
Our career training courses are designed to give
you all the knowledge, skills and qualifications
you’ll need to be successful when searching
for employment within the marine industry
and your chances of finding work will be very
good by the time you complete your training.
We cannot guarantee a job when you finish
your course - you will need to apply for jobs
yourself and be interviewed, but be safe in the
knowledge you’ll be in the best position you
possibly can be.
What is Industry Guidance?
UKSA has built up a huge network of over 1,200
contacts and employers in the yachting and
watersports industry. On selected courses our
Industry Guidance team will be here to support
and mentor you throughout your training and
will assist you with finding work in the marine
industry. Even with the high level qualifications
you will achieve, without the right attitude and
the ability to market yourself you may find it
more difficult than others to find work. During
your course you’ll have industry guidance days
where you’ll receive personalised advice on how
to compile a maritime CV and interview skills.
You’ll also have your own page on our own
dedicated recruitment website exclusively for
the use of UKSA career students
How much time will I get off during my
course?
This depends on your course. Our career
programmes are very intense so time off is
limited, however you will have a few days
off here and there and some self study days
scheduled. We can provide you with a sample
course programme if you’d like to see how our
courses are structured - just let your course
advisor know and they can email one to you.
27
‘The pace is very intense
but it prepares you for the
industry. This course was
some of the best spent
money of my life.’
Haik Achim Lützow, UKSA graduate
By passenger ferry
By rail
We recommend the Hi-Speed Red Jet passenger
ferry service operated by Red Funnel. This
operates from Southampton to Cowes and the
terminal is just 15 minutes’ walk from UKSA.
This services runs every 30 minutes with a
journey time of around 25 minutes.
There are frequent trains from London
Waterloo to Southampton Central which takes
approximately one hour and 20 minutes. From
Southampton Central, catch the free bus service
that runs every 15 minutes from outside the
station to the Red Funnel Hi-Speed ferry service
at Town Quay.
By car ferry
Red Funnel’s car ferry sails frequently from
Southampton to East Cowes with a journey time
of around one hour. On arrival in East Cowes
you can take the ‘floating bridge’ chain ferry to
Cowes which takes approximately five minutes.
By air
Southampton International Airport is a short
rail or taxi ride from Southampton. There is
a full UK domestic service as well as flights to
mainland Europe and the Channel Islands.
Wightlink offers two car ferry services to the
Island. Portsmouth to Fishbourne (near Ryde)
has a journey time of around 40 minutes.
Lymington to Yarmouth (West Wight) has a
journey time of around 30 minutes.
Getting to UKSA
28
29
UKSA
Arctic Road, Cowes
Isle of Wight, P031 7PQ
Information and guidance
+44 (0)1983 203038
Web
www.uksa.org
Email
careers@uksa.org
UKSA is a registered
Charity Number 299248
Patron
HRH The Princess Royal
‘UKSA have a genuine passion for
what they do. It is refreshing to see
their commitment to providing not
only flexible, quality training which
produces well educated graduates but
also their ongoing support, advice and
guidance to them. This demonstrates
admirable relationship building which
can provide UKSA graduates and
cadets with a source of assistance
well beyond the confines of the
course duration.’
Design: ROC Design
www.uksa.org
Design: ROC Design
Terry Wilson
Director Wilsonhalligan