UK MCA Approved Blended Ships Cook Certification Program Chefs on Commercial Vessels
Established in 1961, Dumfries and Galloway College is a further education institution with a strong commitment to developing green skills and helping tackle climate change. With campuses in Dumfries and Stranraer, the College is a major employer and a key provider of education and training across the South of Scotland. It offers a wide range of learning opportunities, from senior-phase school partnerships to higher education, helping people build the skills and confidence they need to take their next steps, whether that means continuing their studies or moving into employment.
The College offers further and higher education courses across eight subject areas, covering both traditional disciplines and emerging industries. There is a particular focus on care, enterprise, digital technologies and green energy, ensuring students can develop skills that reflect the changing needs of employers and society. Its research and innovation centre at the Dumfries Campus also plays an important role in bringing together education, research and business to support more sustainable ways of working. Through this work, the College helps develop the knowledge and practical skills needed to use new technologies and contribute to a greener, cleaner future.
With a wide choice of courses and qualifications, students can find opportunities that suit their interests and ambitions, whether they are starting their first career or looking for a fresh direction. They are supported by dedicated teaching and support staff who care about their progress and success. This commitment is reflected in student feedback, with 89.4% of further education students and 88% of higher education students reporting that they were satisfied with their college experience.
Training Programs
Marine Cookery Program
Career Programs
- Ships Cook Certificate (16 weeks): This blended course is a mandatory requirement for all chefs on UK-registered commercial vessels operating more than 60 miles offshore and with 10 or more seafarers on board.
Requirements
- Have attended an approved course and have at least 1 month of sea service as second cook or cooks assistant OR hold an appropriate cookery qualification (e.g. City And Guilds 706 1, 2 or 3; S/NVQ 2 or 3; or equivalent qualification) and not less than 1 month sea service; OR have at least 12 months working in a catering establishment and not less than 1 month sea service
- Sea experience should be recent and needs to be evidenced, normally using the discharge book. Other proof of service could be accepted.
- Have passed an approved examination for ships cooks. It is recommended that ships cooks have also completed appropriate food hygiene training.
LAST UPDATED ON Oct 28, 2026