UK MCA Approved Ship's Cook Marine Cookery Program for Maritime Professionals
Founded in 1975, Leiths School of Food and Wine, operating under the Leiths Education umbrella, is a forward-thinking organization dedicated to advancing the culinary, hospitality, and education sectors. Driven by the core belief that everyone deserves the opportunity to learn how to cook simple, fresh ingredients from scratch, the institution is deeply invested in improving the health and culinary confidence of current and future generations.
To actively support this mission on a national scale, Leiths is committed to resolving the critical shortage of specialist food educators. Through a groundbreaking partnership with the University of Roehampton, the organization delivers innovative Food Teacher Training Qualifications, equipping a new wave of teachers with industry-leading methods to inspire students across the country.
Leiths Education also provides a robust range of professional development pathways for anyone with serious career aspirations in the food industry including marine cookery for the maritime industry. Designed to accommodate students of all ages and lifestyles, the curriculum offers highly flexible full-time, part-time, and intensive study options. Guided by an expert teaching staff, these specialized courses and qualifications deliver the precise skills culinary professionals need to reach their full potential and succeed. Leiths Culinary School is one of a handful of providers offering the Assessment in Marine Cookery in the UK, and the only one based in central London currently
Training Programs
Marine Cookery Program
- Ships Cook Certificate Assessment: The Ships’ Cook Certificate unlocks some of the most sought-after professions in marine cookery and superyacht cheffing. The three-day Assessment in Marine Cookery, designed for working chefs, is one of four requirements to get your Certificate, and is held at Leiths Culinary School.
- Assessment in Marine Cookery: Over three days, candidates complete a written theory examination and two practical cookery assessments, evaluated against the competency standards set out in MCA MSN 1846. If you pass, you will receive the documentation needed for your MCA certificate application.
Requirements
- Level 2 Award in Food Safety in Catering: Candidates for the Ships’ Cook Certificate must hold a Level 2 Award in Food Safety in Catering, completed with face-to-face training.
- STCW Basic Safety Training: They also must have the STCW Basic Safety Training comprises four compulsory elements - Personal Survival Techniques, fire prevention and Firefighting, Elementary First Aid and Personal Safety and Social Responsibilities.
- Medical Fitness Certificate: Candidates require a current Medical Fitness Certificate, also known as a Fit to Work Medical Certificate, issued by an MCA-approved doctor.
LAST UPDATED ON Oct 27, 2026