Best UK Colleges for GP Rating to Become an Officer or Engineer
1:- What is GP Rating?
GP Rating (General Purpose Rating) refers to individuals trained in both Deck and Engine Room tasks in the maritime field. GP Rating is a six-month residential course, approved by D.G Shipping, which ensures a comprehensive study of Deck and Engineering subjects.
1.1:- Importance of GP Rating
GP Rating certified seamen are responsible for cargo handling, maintenance work, and machinery operation on the ship’s deck and engine department onboard. Their training includes physical drills, workshop sessions, lifesaving exercises, and ship visits.
GP Rating candidates receive an INDIAN CDC, making them eligible for global shipping companies. They can start as trainee OS, fitter, oiler, or engine room cadet, progressing to roles like Able-Bodied Seamen or Engine Fitter with sea service.
GP Rating course significantly enhances the employability of Indian seafarers worldwide, offering a pathway to diverse opportunities in the merchant navy.
2:- Benefits of UK CoC for GP Rating
Getting a UK CoC is a game-changer for GP Rating in the merchant navy.
- Higher Ranking Position( 3rd officer/ 4th engineer)
- More Salary
- More Responsibility
3. Is It Possible to Become an Officer or Engineer with GP Rating?
Yes, someone with a GP Rating certificate can become an officer. Many officers start their careers in the merchant navy as GP Ratings, pursue further education, and become officers (deck and engine side).
The most common and easy pathway for transitioning from a GP Rating to an officer with UK CoC, particularly in engineering, often involves obtaining a UK CoC through further education and training, paving the way to officially qualifying as an officer in the merchant navy.
4:- Best UK Colleges for GP Rating to Become an Officer or Engineer with UK CoC
4.1. South Shields Marine School
| Name | South Shields Marine School |
| College/University | South Tyneside College |
| Address | Grosvenor Rd, South Shields, NE33 3EN, United Kingdom |
| Contact Details | +44 191 427 3517 |
- South Shields Marine School was established in 1861 and it stands as an institution for maritime education and training.
- South Shields Marine School offers various courses in Navigation (Deck), engineering (Marine engineering), and catering services onboard.
- South Shields Marine School educates deck, engine, and ETO ratings to advanced officer trainee programs.Â
4.2. City of Glasgow College
- City of Glasgow College brings its expertise to offer various CoC courses to the students with quality education.
- City of Glasgow College offers a range of CoC courses, including, Officer of the Watch (OOW), Chief Mate, and Masters CoC courses.
| Name | City of Glasgow College |
| College/ University | City of Glasgow College |
| Address | City Campus, 190 Cathedral Street, G4 0RF, Riverside Campus, 21 Thistle Street |
| Contact Details | 0141 375 5555 |
4.3. Warsash Maritime School
- Warsash Maritime School was established in 1953.
- Warsash Maritime School offers courses to over 150 candidates such as deck, engineering, interior, maritime, and offshore safety training courses, approved by the MCA, MNTB, OPITO, SIGTTO, SQA, and other awarding bodies.
- Warsash Maritime School’s commitment to excellence has solidified its reputation as a leading institution in maritime education, nurturing skilled individuals for the global maritime industry.
| Name | Warsash Maritime School |
| College/ University | Warsash Maritime School |
| Address | Warsash: Newtown Road, Warsash, Southampton |
| Contact Details | +023 8201 3074 |
4.4. Fleetwood Nautical College
- Fleetwood Nautical Campus was established in 1898 (125 years).
- The three-year cadetship programs, which include sponsored pre-sea training, have demonstrated notable effectiveness. Graduates from these programs excel in various capacities, serving as accomplished deck officers, engineering officers, and electro-technical officers.
- Fleetwood Nautical Campus adopts a comprehensive approach to Officer of the Watch and Chief Mate courses. The institution is recognized for its dedicated oral preparation, receiving acclaim for playing a vital role in guiding officers toward obtaining their Certificate of Competency (CoC).
| Name | Fleetwood Nautical College |
| Address | Broadwater, Fleetwood FY7 8JZ, United Kingdom |
| Contact Details | +44 1253 504800 |
You can get more ideas about UK Colleges for GP Rating to Officer or Engineer from our YouTube Video.
5. Conclusion
As you pursue your UK CoC, trust in reputable institutions like the City of Glasgow College, and Fleetwood Nautical Campus in the United Kingdom.
Merchant Navy Decoded recommends these colleges, ensuring you can trust them for quality education and a successful certification journey.
Your selection should align with your goals. Stay cautious, as frauds exist in the industry. Choose wisely, follow your course, and may your maritime aspirations sail smoothly. Safe travels on your educational voyage!
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