Boatmaster

Become a Boatmaster navigating vessels through busy and highly challenging waterways

How long: 24 months

Where: London/ Hybrid. You will have to travel outside of London for training blocks throughout the apprenticeship

Salary: £25,294  

What you'll need

  • English and Maths to GCSE (or equivalent) grade C or 4. If not, SeaRegs will assist you in gaining these qualifications during the Apprenticeship.
  • MCA's ENG1 medical before the start date. (This will be refunded if successful and start your role TfL)
"I think this programme is important because there are untapped skills and a workforce waiting to meet its potential due to a previous lack of awareness and advice. People like me were not aware of the avenues and opportunities relating to the marine industry, simply because we may not know anyone or have any generational background. The apprenticeship offered by TfL is a step towards building a new external talent base and upskilling internal candidates to progress in their careers."
Mumin Malik
Woolwich Ferry's first BML Apprentice

Job overview

You will gain the following knowledge; onboard health and safety law, good knowledge and maintenance of ropework, access and lifting gear, seamanship, navigation and passage planning including radar usage, anchoring, knowledge of International Maritime Organisation Conventions, company bridge procedures, emergency regulations, all aspects of ship manoeuvrability, propulsion, steering and obstacles (locks, docks and bridges) including tides and poor weather. Onboard communication systems and methods, legislation of vessel construction and operation, maintenance of deck machinery and factors that affect seaworthiness. General engineering practice and procedures and pollution legislation. Also included is equality and diversity legislation, awareness of the employer's business objectives to ensure that the vessel contributes to the business.

What you'll be doing 

As an apprentice, your two year development programme will be made up of many placement rotations which will work around your formal training outside of London. Our aim is to equip you with the range of skills and experience you need for your successful career. 

We also understand that everyone's career is different, so every apprentice's journey is unique. 
Here's an idea of what yours could look like:

Placement 1 - Introduction to Woolwich Ferry and Transport for London
Placement 2 - Introduction to Woolwich Ferry shoreside operations
Placement 3 - Introduction to deck operation

Where this career can take you

  • A Bridge Officer at Woolwich Ferry

  • A Bridge Officer on commercial vessels on inland waterways

  • If you chose to do so you can continue to develop seagoing qualifications (beyond your time at TfL) you may choose to travel the world at sea