Shipping cadets
Want to learn to operate ships worldwide? And get paid while you earn internationally recognised qualifications? Find out all about our cadet training programmes
Quick links
Applications for these programmes are now open.
Work doesn’t have to be nine-to-five. In fact, what could be better than waking up to a sea view, working you way around the world as a sponsored sea cadet and earning as you learn on the bp fleet.
Cosy one-bed in mid-Atlantic
Picture yourself cruising the oceans on a multi-million-dollar supertanker, transporting commodities all over the world. And you could become a fully trained officer with internationally recognised qualifications in just three adventure-filled years.
We’ll pay your exam and course fees and give you a generous allowance (starting at £11,000 per year!) to help you enjoy your journey.
Minimum requirements to board
- At least 18 years old by 1 September 2025
- Be a British citizen
- Have a British passport
- Applicants will need to pass an industry-standard medical examination to complete a placement at sea.
For role-specific entry requirements, please refer to deck cadet, engineer cadet or electro technical cadet pages linked below.
Programmes on offer
Deck cadets
You’ll go all over the ship as you learn to navigate, load and unload cargo, handle legal and commercial affairs and oversee crew operations.
Not ready to apply yet but want to know more? Join our Early Years Talent Community to get all the news and updates about a career at sea.
Engineer cadets
Hot and frenetic, the engine room is the beating heart of any ship. Our training will teach you about the ship’s main engines and how to run and maintain all the mechanical equipment on board.
Not ready to apply yet but want to know more? Join our Early Years Talent Community to get all the news and updates about a career at sea.
Application process
Stage 1
Fill in the short application form and submit your CV.
Stage 2
Take an online test.
Stage 3
Complete an on-demand video interview.
Stage 4
Take part in an assessment centre.
On the day there will be a competency-based interview, a facilitated test and a group exercise. The group exercise has a strong focus on safety, so make sure you’re prepared for that aspect.
Stage 5
