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Transformational opportunities for careers
www.uksa.org
I want to live life.
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.
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.
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.
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 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.
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.
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
1 2 – 3 4 – 5 6 – 7 8 – 9
10 – 11 12 – 13 14 – 15 16 – 17 18 – 19 20 – 21 22 – 23 24 – 25 26 – 27 28 – 29
The UKSA difference
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
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2 3 4Foundation Training
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 like-minded 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.
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.
Career Courses
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:
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.
These are just some of our courses. Please see our website for full listings www.uksa.org
We get people ready for work
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.
1Entry Point
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.
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.
About us
Through sailing and watersports, UKSA gives young people a purpose and ultimately can help turn leisure pursuits into careers.
We offer an evolving curriculum and wide choice of courses with different entry and exit points, depending on your skill level, timescale, goal and budget.
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.
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History of UKSA
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.
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 re-evaluation 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!).
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.’
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.
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.
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.
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Superyacht Deckhand
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 play-hard 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!)
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
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
Yacht Steward/ess
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.
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.
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.
Delivery Skipper
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.
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.
What could I be?
‘ Even though it’s stressful and a lot of hard work, it’s amazing and I love it.’
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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.
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 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.
Our unique environment
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Getting started
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.
UKSA Open Days
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.
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.
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.
Maritime Foundation Course
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.
Follow us
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 [email protected]
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We sometimes have bursaries available to help young people onto our courses. Deserving potential students should enquire about the different options.
Case studies
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.
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.
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 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.
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.
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.
He was researching different ways to fund a superyacht cadetship programme when he found out what UKSA had to offer.
As well as the qualification, he realised he would be guided by industry experts towards all the big hirers of superyacht crews.
Life at UKSA would offer three years of study, accommodation, food, friendship and career guidance.
He said: ‘I am passionate about the boating industry and am out on the water all the time. UKSA seemed ideal for me.
‘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.’
The 21-year-old, of Grimsby, will be set for a career at sea after his three years with UKSA.
A school trip doing dinghy sailing sparked a desire to make a career at sea for 20-year-old Josh Ryan.
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.
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).
He said: ‘I would love to work on superyachts so it would be great to get into the industry and work my way up.
‘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.’
Oliver Whitten Matthew Dykes 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.’
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Superyacht Cadetship
Earn while you learnTravel the world Qualify to degree level
Superyacht Cadetship
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.
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.
Prerequisite experience:
Applicants should be between 18 and 25. To apply for the training, you need to attend a two-day 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.
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.
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.
Superyacht Cadetship Benefits
• Gain the qualifications needed to work on the world’s superyachts
• 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.
‘ 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
‘ 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.’
Lewis Smith, cadet
14 15For careers advice contact Tel. +44(0)1983 203038
Professional Yachtmaster Training(Offshore /Ocean)
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-to-one 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
• 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
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
17For careers advice contact Tel. +44(0)1983 20303816
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
1918For careers advice contact Tel. +44(0)1983 203038
Yacht Engineering
‘ 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.’
Superyacht Engineer Training
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.
Previous engineering experience is not essential, however candidates with relevant experience will find a wider range of employment opportunities available to them.
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.
Yacht Engineer Training
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.
This course is beneficial for those Marine Engineers seeking to advance towards Y4 of the MCA Engineering Officer scheme.
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.
• 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
• Introduction to steering gear
• Windlass and winch systems
MCA Approved Engine Course
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.
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.
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.
UKSA Industry Guidance Co-ordinator
2120For careers advice contact Tel. +44(0)1983 203038
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.
• Train to a broad and comprehensive syllabus, delivered by top hospitality and maritime specialists
• Prepare for a service career with opportunities to live on luxurious yachts and travel to some of the most spectacular areas of the globe
• Train to deliver the level of service to which most five star hotels aspire
• Transfer your skills from other hospitality-related careers
• Develop your ability and passion for delivering a level of service beyond first class
• Huge demand for high calibre staff in this sector
• Incorporates 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
You will also receive Industry Guidance sessions and 1:1 careers mentoring
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
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.
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.
Superyacht Cookery Intermediate
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: 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
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.
22 23For careers advice contact Tel. +44(0)1983 203038
Watersports Instructor Training
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.
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: 8 weeks
What’s included: Includes all food and accommodation. You will also receive Industry Guidance sessions and 1:1 career mentoring.
Watersports Instructor Development
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.
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.
Watersports
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.
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.
Duration: 2 weeks
What’s included: Includes all food and accommodation.
Watersports
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.
For careers advice contact Tel. +44(0)1983 203038 2524
Frequently asked questions
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.
Superyacht Interior Intermediate and Superyacht Cookery Intermediate are non-residential 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?
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.
‘ 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
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Getting to UKSA
By passenger ferry
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.
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.
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.
By rail
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 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.
‘ 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
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UKSAArctic Road, CowesIsle of Wight, P031 7PQ
Information and guidance+44 (0)1983 203038
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.’
Terry WilsonDirector Wilsonhalligan
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