Life as a Cadet

As an Officer Cadet, you get the best of both worlds. You’re learning the job of a Royal Fleet Auxiliary (RFA) officer, seeing the world and getting paid for it, while studying for a recognised higher qualification as though you were at university.

Earn Decent Money While You Learn:

You can join either as an Officer Cadet (Deck) or Marine Engineer (ME) Cadet on one of two different programmes:

• HND Programme: To qualify for the HND route you’ll need a minimum of 5 GCSEs at A-C or Scottish Standard Grades 1-3. This must include at least: Maths at B or 2 , Physics, Chemistry or Dual Science at B or 2 and for Deck Officer Cadets a B or 2 in English. Engineering Officer Cadets will need a C or 3 in English Language. Other qualifications including Advanced Diplomas will be considered on a case by case basis if the minimum GCSE/Standard Grade qualifications have not been met. By the end of this course you’ll have earned a Higher National Diploma (HND) and your MCA Certificate of Competency. If you join as an Officer Cadet (Deck), you’ll study Nautical Science, while as an ME Cadet your HND will be in Marine Engineering.

• Foundation degree programme: If you hold the minimum GCSE/Standard Grade requirements but also have higher qualifications representing at least 150 UCAS points in relevant subjects you will be assessed and may be able to join our foundation degree programme. On the deck route, you’ll get a FDSc in Marine Operations, while as an ME Cadet you’ll earn your FDEng in Marine Engineering.

Continuing Professional Development:

Once you’ve completed your cadetship, you’ll gain the qualification required to undertake the role of Third Officer.  The main duty of a Third Officer is to keep watch on the bridge or in the engine room.

You’ll also be able to train for a wide range of MCA-accredited certificates and undergo some Royal Navy training with any costs paid by us.

You’ll have all of this, plus the numerous opportunities for travel, adventure, training and teamwork that attracts so many to the Royal Fleet Auxiliary in the first place.

Does this sound good to you?