A rolling review of the UK maritime syllabus has been launched to keep seafarer training in line with changing technology, safety standards and industry practice.
The Maritime and Coastguard Agency is leading the review in partnership with industry. Backing has been secured for five-yearly revisions of the syllabus that training centres must teach students preparing for safe and successful employment at sea.
The syllabus has been taught in a newly revised version since September 2025. Future changes will be reflected in recently launched electronic Training Record Books and digital assessments, according to the agency.
The development comes from the MCA-led Cadet Training and Modernisation Programme, which brings together stakeholders focused on improving seafarer training. The five-year review has been backed by the programme's Oversight Committee, which sets its strategic direction and reports to the Maritime Minister.
The programme's syllabus sub-group meets every three months to review modules. It has been expanded to include more shipping companies, training providers and industry representation bodies.
The next syllabus update is scheduled to be taught from 2030, following delivery of the new edition to training centres in 2029. The Cadet Training and Modernisation Programme was launched in 2021 to keep learning aligned with modern technology and practices.
MCA Chief Examiner Ajit Jacob said regular review would help training keep pace with changes in vessel technology and safety learning. Merchant Navy Training Board Director Kevin Gregory said the collaborative process would help ensure UK seafarer training remains relevant, practical and ambitious.