Skills England launches consultation on Marine Pilot apprenticeship

Skills England has launched a consultation on the future of the Marine Pilot Level 5 apprenticeship, which supports the training and development of marine pilots, ensuring the safe navigation of vessels entering and leaving UK ports.

The consultation proposes that the apprenticeship be retired, citing low uptake since its introduction in 2018 and the fact there is currently no provider delivering the standard.

Marine pilots play a critical role in port safety, and the sector has raised concerns about workforce demographics and future succession planning.

PSS is inviting members to review the consultation and share their views ahead of a coordinated sector response. The deadline for comments to PSS is Friday 07 August 2026.

Further information for members is available in the skills bulletin below.