A new rolling review of the UK maritime syllabus has been launched, led by the Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA) in partnership with industry. This initiative aims to ensure high-quality training that is fit for the future.
The review will involve five-yearly revisions of the syllabus, which training centres must teach to students. This is intended to ensure seafarers learn up-to-date skills for safe and successful employment at sea. Updates will include new technology, enhanced safety standards, and improved practice.
The syllabus has been taught in a newly revised version since September 2025. Future changes will be reflected in the recently launched electronic Training Record Books (eTRBs) and digital assessments. The next syllabus update is scheduled to be taught from 2030, following the new edition being delivered to training centres in 2029.
This development stems from the MCA-led Cadet Training and Modernisation (CT&M) Programme, launched in 2021 to keep learning aligned with modern technology and practices. The CT&M Programme's syllabus sub-group, which meets every three months, has been expanded to include more shipping companies, training providers, and industry representation bodies.