Level 2 Certificate in Maritime Studies: Able Seafarer (Deck)
Qualifications Scotland code: GESS 54
Ofqual code: 610/7943/1
Total Qualification Time: 187
Guided Learning Hours: 170
Credit value: 19
The Level 2 Certificate in Maritime Studies: Able Seafarer (Deck) will develop knowledge and skills in areas such as deckhand operations, securing a vessel for passage, and vessel construction and stability.
This qualification may be available through employers, training providers and colleges. It is offered in England.
This is an updated qualification that has been developed by the Maritime Skills Alliance to ensure it meets the needs of the industry.
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Rationale and purpose of this qualification
This qualification is aimed at those who have no prior experience of the maritime sector.
Its primary purpose is to develop the learner’s occupational competence as an able seafarer deck operative so that they can gain employment or work towards another qualification. As a work-related, competence-based qualification, it provides confirmation to employers and industry managers that the learner has the skills and knowledge needed to meet the nationally-recognised standard to carry out the role.
Learners who achieve this qualification can use it to gain employment, to progress in the industry, or to work towards another qualification.
Objectives
The qualification is designed to meet the following objectives:
- preparing learners for employment
- preparing learners to progress to another qualification
- meeting relevant programmes of learning
- giving learners personal growth and engagement in learning
- supporting a role in the workplace
Recognition
The qualification is intended for people in the maritime sector and has been developed in conjunction with the Merchant Navy Training Board and the Maritime and Coastguard Agency to ensure it is 'fit for purpose'.
What does this qualification cover?
As this is a competence-based qualification, learners will be acquiring the knowledge and skills required through either on-the-job experience or in a learning environment.
To achieve the whole qualification, learners need a minimum of 19 credits. They must complete 5 mandatory units from the qualification structure.
Who is this qualification for?
This qualification is suitable for:
- learners with no prior experience
- learners in employment who wish to enhance their career prospects
- learners not in employment who wish to enhance their career prospects
- apprentices
- school leavers
- adults returning to education
Entry
Entry to the qualification is at the discretion of the centre.
Apprenticeships
This qualification is a mandatory component in the Seafarer (deck rating) Apprenticeship Standard in England.
Progression
This qualification can lead to progression within the maritime industry, particularly when it is taken as a component of an Apprenticeship.
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Qualification structure
The qualification requires the learner to complete 5 mandatory units (credit value 19).
Please refer to the qualification structure (87 KB) for more information.
How to assess
Ongoing course assessment will apply. Each unit specification gives detailed information on the assessment criteria, assessment (evidence) requirements and guidance on instruments of assessment for the unit.
Learners are assessed by completing various tasks to evidence what has been learned. This can be carried out through practical assessment, knowledge-based questioning, or online assessment. The assessor can then confirm that the learner has met the requirements of the qualification and that they have the necessary underpinning knowledge and skills.
Learner portfolio
Assessment strategy/principle
Lapsing
Level 2 Certificate in Maritime Studies: Able Seafarer (Deck) (GK54 54)
This group award has been replaced.
It entered its lapsing period on: 31/08/2026
It finishes on: 31/08/2028
Qualification structure
The Level 2 Certificate in Maritime Studies: Able Seafarer (Deck) requires the learner to complete five mandatory units (credit value 19).
SQA code: GK54 54
Ofqual code: 603/4892/6
Please refer to the qualification structure (79 KB) for more information.
How to assess
Ongoing course assessment will apply. Each unit specification gives detailed information on the assessment criteria, assessment (evidence) requirements and guidance on instruments of assessment for the unit.
Learners are assessed by completing various tasks to evidence what has been learned. This can be carried out through practical assessment, knowledge-based questioning, or online assessment. The assessor can then confirm that the learner has met the requirements of the qualification and that they have the necessary underpinning knowledge and skills.