Generally new entrant officer cadets undertake their training following selection by SSTG but all candidates will be sponsored by a member company of the group.
You may apply on-line or by sending in an application form that you can download from this site. Click here.
“I have had an excellent training. Going to sea is enjoyable - we all work hard but that is to be expected. Once you have got used to being away from home - not easy to begin with - then managing your own life and travelling away is one of the greatest attractions.” Deck Cadet now serving at sea as a junior officer
Recruitment and Selection
The SSTG assist our member companies in the recruitment and selection of new entrant officer cadets, and other new entrant category applicants.
You are welcome to contact us as above so that we may consider your application prior to forwarding this to a company with suitable vacancies.
Applicants for both Higher National Diplomas (HND) and Undergraduate Degree programmes are selected according to our member companies’ individual recruitment requirements, and so a single application via the SSTG will eliminate the need to make multiple approaches directly to the companies you may be interested in.
The SSTG does not directly employ seafarers, and cadets are only trained once they have been placed in the employ of a company. We often receive requests indicating interest in particular ship types and companies. We ask that you appreciate whilst we will make every effort to meet your preferences this may not always be possible as the availability of vacancies and entry requirements will vary from company to company. We recommend you approach us as early as possible to maximise your chances.
The procedure we follow makes it easy for you to apply for interview. We cannot however guarantee an interview as acceptance will depend upon suitable vacancies being available, and your application meeting the individual companies’ internal interview requirements.
Stringent drug and alcohol policies apply within the Merchant Navy, and new applicants are required to comply with their company’s policies. Random testing may take place during any phase of the training programme.
Entry Requirements
There are clear and specific entry requirements relating to academic qualifications, medical suitability, and age. Click here to find out more.
Procedure for Processing Applications
- Your request for an application form is processed directly by us and the form and an information pack is forwarded on to you.
- Your completed application form is received and initially assessed by SSTG on behalf of our members. If you qualify and a suitable vacancy exists you will be invited to an interview with us. These interviews are usually held at our headquarters in Rochester, Kent.
- A successful interview with us will result in your application being sent on to a company or companies for their consideration.
- If you are selected for a second interview this will be directly with the company concerned. In some circumstances the SSTG and company interviews may be combined.
- If you are offered a position following interview this will be made subject to a satisfactory medical examination and meeting academic entry requirements if not already held. The medical examination will be arranged for you.
- On acceptance of a successful medical report the offer will be confirmed, and all the necessary administration procedures completed. Arrangements will then be made for you to commence your training.