Award-winning maritime cadets recognised at leading colleges

For anyone considering a maritime cadet programme, the journey to becoming a ship’s officer starts with dedication, hard work and a willingness to learn. Five Carnival cadets have recently been recognised for demonstrating exactly those qualities, receiving awards from Fleetwood Nautical Campus, City of Glasgow College.

The awards celebrate achievement across several maritime disciplines, including deck officer training, engineering cadet studies and electro-technical officer (ETO) development. They also highlight the opportunities available through the Carnival Corporation Cadet Programme, which supports future officers for both P&O Cruises and Cunard.

Fleetwood cadets both win Student of the Year

Sarah showcases excellence both inside and outside the classroom

Sarah was shortlisted for (and won!) Student of the Year in the Further Education Adult Maritime category after impressing tutors with the consistently high standard of work she produced throughout her first phase. In addition to achieving strong academic results, Sarah supported fellow cadets by organising study groups, helping during college open days and volunteering at campus events. Her commitment to both personal success and supporting others made her a standout candidate for the award.

“Winning Cadet of the Year means so much to me because I never expected to be recognised in this way, and this recognition makes all the hard work feel even more worthwhile. Being a cadet has helped me grow in confidence, discipline, and resilience, and this award reminds me how far I’ve come. I’m incredibly grateful to Fleetwood Nautical College for all the support, encouragement, and opportunities they have given me, and I truly appreciate their continued support and encouragement in my cadet journey. As well as my college, my colleagues and sponsors at Carnival UK have been a big part of my progression as a deck cadet and it is a privilege to sail with them.” Sarah

Jack displays positive attitude and commitment to learning

Jack was shortlisted in the 16–18 Further Education Maritime category before being named Student of the Year. Tutors praised his enthusiasm, positive attitude and commitment to learning. Throughout his first academic phase, he supported classmates, shared knowledge with fellow students and volunteered at events designed to inspire young people to explore maritime careers.

“It is an honour to be nominated for the award, so to be chosen as the winner genuinely took me by surprise. I’m incredibly proud, but even more grateful to everyone who has supported and encouraged me throughout my first phase of my cadetship. It’s made me even more excited to continue learning, developing and making the most of the opportunities ahead.” Jack

Best Progress awards celebrate determination and resilience

Ethan Henry recognised in nautical science

Deck cadet Ethan Henry received the Best Progress award for nautical science at City of Glasgow College.

The award recognises exceptional dedication, commitment and continuous improvement throughout a cadet’s studies. Ethan’s progress throughout his training demonstrated the determination required to succeed as a future deck officer.

George Dickson receives engineering and ETO award

Electro-Technical Officer cadet George Dickson was presented with the Best Progress award for engineering and ETO studies.

His hard work throughout Phase 5 and his continued development from Phase 1 to completion highlighted the resilience and professionalism expected of future maritime engineers and technical officers.

Another outstanding achievement in Malta

El Mehdi named Top Performer and Valedictorian at MaritimeMT

El Mehdi was recognised as both Top Performer and Valedictorian after completing his Officer of the Watch training at MaritimeMT in Malta. The awards recognise outstanding academic achievement, commitment and professional development throughout the programme.

His success followed a career change from mechanical engineering into the maritime industry. MaritimeMT highlighted his dedication throughout his training, which combined classroom learning, simulator exercises and sea-going experience before qualifying as an Officer of the Watch.

Alongside the achievements of Sarah, Jack, Ethan and George, El Mehdi’s award demonstrates the commitment, resilience and determination that help cadets build successful careers at sea.

What does a maritime cadet do?

A maritime cadet combines academic learning at college with practical experience at sea. Depending on their specialism, cadets train to become deck officers, marine engineers or electro-technical officers responsible for the safe operation of modern ships.

Throughout the programme, cadets develop technical knowledge, leadership skills and hands-on experience that prepare them for officer-level careers across the maritime industry.

Interested in a career at sea?

If you’re looking for a cadetship or want to know how to become a ship’s officer, the Carnival Corporation Cadet Programme offers opportunities across deck, engineering and electro-technical pathways.

Discover where a maritime career could take you and learn more about becoming a future officer with Carnival Corporation.