Aspiring seafarers across the UK have just had a major boost in support for their training journey. The Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA) has confirmed that funding under the Support for Maritime Training (SMarT) scheme will continue for an extra 12 months — now available right through to 31 March 2026.
This extension builds on an earlier six-month continuation of the support that was set to expire in March 2025, giving cadets, junior officers and self-funded trainees vital financial breathing room as they work toward international qualifications and seagoing competencies.
Why the SMarT Extension Matters
For many early-career mariners, training can be one of the biggest barriers to progression — from rising course costs to balancing time at sea with study requirements. The SMarT fund helps ease this by allowing sponsoring companies and cadets alike to claim up to 50 % of eligible training costs, making the pathway toward certificates of competency considerably more accessible.
This kind of support doesn’t just benefit individual careers — it also helps address a broader industry challenge: building a skilled UK-based workforce for tomorrow’s maritime sector. With global demand for competent officers, engineers and technical specialists continuing to rise, encouraging more people into seafaring roles is essential.
What It Means for You
📌 Cadets and Junior Officers
If you’re currently on a cadetship or working toward management-level qualifications, this extension means more time to complete essential modules with financial help. The fund also supports junior officers who are early in their professional journey.
📌 Self-Funded Trainees
For those funding their own training, this could be a game-changer. With support available until March 2026, you have the chance to plan your training more strategically without breaking the bank.
📌 Training Providers and Employers
Maritime training providers and sponsoring employers can continue to support cadets under the SMarT scheme, helping nurture talent and strengthen recruitment pipelines across the industry.
In the Words of the MCA
Ajit Jacob, MCA Chief Examiner and Head of Seafarer Technical Delivery, says that the funding extension will continue to “attract men and women who might not have considered a maritime career,” highlighting its role in making seafaring more inclusive and attainable.
Looking Ahead
While the funding extension is a significant step, readers should be aware that maritime training and qualifications continue to evolve alongside industry needs — from sustainability and new technologies to modern competency standards being introduced across UK training institutions. Staying informed and planning your training pathway early remain key to success in this competitive environment.
Whether you’re just starting out or aiming for your next certification level, this extra year of funding offers a welcome opportunity to move forward with confidence.
