ICTQual International Level 1 Award in Maritime Shipping
The ICTQual International Level 1 Award in Maritime Shipping is an introductory qualification designed to provide learners with a foundational understanding of the global shipping industry. As the entry point into the ICTQual maritime pathway, this award equips learners with essential knowledge of shipping operations, trade basics, and the role of maritime transport in international commerce.
This qualification is particularly suited to school leavers, career starters, or individuals with little or no prior experience in shipping who wish to explore opportunities in the maritime and logistics sectors. It introduces learners to the structure of the shipping industry, the importance of ports and vessels, and the fundamental processes that enable global trade.
The Level 1 Award is structured to be accessible and engaging, focusing on practical knowledge that can be applied in real‑world contexts. Learners will gain an appreciation of how shipping supports international supply chains, the basic terminology used in maritime operations, and the career pathways available within the industry.
By completing this qualification, learners will be well‑prepared to progress to higher‑level ICTQual Diplomas in Shipping Operations and Management, or to pursue entry‑level roles in shipping companies, freight forwarding firms, and logistics organisations.
The ICTQual International Level 1 Award in Maritime Shipping provides a strong foundation for anyone seeking to begin their journey in one of the world’s most vital and dynamic industries.
International Level 1 Award in Maritime Shipping
To enrol in ICTQual International Level 1 Award in Maritime Shipping, learner must meet the following entry requirements:
This qualification, the ICTQual International Level 1 Award in Maritime Shipping, consists of 3 mandatory units.
- Introduction to Maritime Shipping and Global Trade
- Basic Roles of Ports, Ships, and Cargo Handling
- Career Pathways in Shipping and Logistics
Learning Outcomes for the ICTQual International Level 1 Award in Maritime Shipping:
Introduction to Maritime Shipping and Global Trade
By the end of this unit, learners will be able to:
- Describe the basic role of maritime shipping in supporting international trade.
- Identify different types of ships and their main functions.
- Recognise key global trade routes and their importance.
- Explain how shipping connects producers, markets, and consumers worldwide.
- Understand the contribution of shipping to the global economy.
- Use simple shipping and trade terminology correctly.
- Show awareness of how shipping supports everyday life and commerce.
Basic Roles of Ports, Ships, and Cargo Handling
By the end of this unit, learners will be able to:
- Identify the main functions of ports in global trade.
- Recognise the roles of ships in transporting different types of cargo.
- Describe basic cargo handling processes at ports and terminals.
- Understand the importance of safety in cargo handling.
- Identify common types of cargo (bulk, containerised, liquid, etc.).
- Explain how ports, ships, and cargo handling work together in the supply chain.
- Show awareness of the importance of efficiency in port and cargo operations.
Career Pathways in Shipping and Logistics
By the end of this unit, learners will be able to:
- Identify a range of entry‑level roles in shipping and logistics.
- Describe the skills and qualities needed to work in the maritime industry.
- Recognise opportunities for progression within shipping and logistics careers.
- Understand the importance of teamwork and communication in the industry.
- Show awareness of international career opportunities in shipping.
- Identify training and qualifications that support career development.
- Reflect on personal interests and how they align with maritime career options.
The ICTQual International Level 1 Award in Maritime Shipping is designed as a stepping stone into the world of global trade, ports, and logistics. While it is a short, introductory programme, it provides learners with the confidence, awareness, and foundational knowledge needed to explore further study and early career opportunities. Successful completion of this award opens multiple pathways into higher qualifications, vocational training, and industry exposure.
Progression to Higher Qualifications
- Enrol in the ICTQual Level 2 Award in Maritime Shipping for deeper knowledge.
- Progress into other Level 2 vocational qualifications in logistics, trade, or transport.
- Build a pathway towards Level 3 Certificates and Diplomas in Shipping Operations.
- Strengthen readiness for international vocational qualifications in logistics.
- Gain confidence to pursue maritime‑related technical training.
- Use the award as a foundation for further academic study in global trade.
- Explore short courses in supply chain, freight forwarding, or port operations.
- Prepare for structured maritime apprenticeships.
- Position yourself for long‑term progression through Levels 4–7.
Career Exploration Opportunities
- Explore entry‑level roles such as shipping assistant or port support staff.
- Gain awareness of career options in freight forwarding and logistics.
- Use the award as a stepping stone to internships in shipping companies.
- Understand the variety of roles available in ports and terminals.
- Build confidence to apply for junior administrative roles in logistics.
- Learn about opportunities in customs clearance and documentation.
- Explore part‑time or trainee roles in maritime organisations.
- Use the qualification to demonstrate interest when applying for apprenticeships.
- Begin mapping out a long‑term career plan in shipping.
Personal and Professional Development
- Build confidence in using basic shipping and trade terminology.
- Strengthen awareness of global trade and its importance in daily life.
- Develop an understanding of how ports, ships, and cargo handling connect.
- Gain motivation to pursue long‑term career pathways in maritime and logistics.
- Improve teamwork and communication skills.
- Learn how to apply classroom knowledge to real‑world contexts.
- Develop a sense of responsibility and professional curiosity.
- Build early employability skills valued by employers.
- Lay the foundation for lifelong learning in international trade.
Pathway to Maritime Apprenticeships
- Use the award to access entry‑level maritime apprenticeships.
- Gain practical experience alongside structured training.
- Explore apprenticeships in port operations or cargo handling.
- Develop workplace skills while earning and learning.
- Build a foundation for progression into higher apprenticeships.
- Gain exposure to real‑world shipping environments.
- Strengthen employability with a recognised qualification.
- Demonstrate commitment to the maritime industry.
- Position yourself for long‑term career growth.
International Opportunities
- Understand how shipping connects global markets.
- Explore international career pathways in logistics and trade.
- Build awareness of global shipping hubs and ports.
- Gain confidence to pursue overseas training opportunities.
- Learn about international standards in shipping operations.
- Use the award as a foundation for global maritime qualifications.
- Explore cultural awareness in international trade.
- Prepare for future mobility in the global workforce.
- Develop an international outlook from the start of your career.
Academic Progression Pathways
- Progress into Level 2 and Level 3 maritime qualifications.
- Build credits towards higher‑level diplomas in shipping.
- Strengthen academic writing and study skills.
- Gain confidence in structured learning environments.
- Use the award as a bridge to vocational and academic study.
- Explore related fields such as supply chain or transport management.
- Prepare for advanced study in maritime law or economics later.
- Develop research and enquiry skills at an early stage.
- Position yourself for long‑term academic success.
Employability and Skills Development
- Gain recognition for completing an accredited qualification.
- Demonstrate commitment to employers in shipping and logistics.
- Build transferable skills such as communication and organisation.
- Show awareness of workplace safety and responsibility.
- Develop confidence in applying for entry‑level roles.
- Strengthen your CV with a recognised award.
- Learn how to present yourself professionally.
- Gain early exposure to industry expectations.
- Build a foundation for employability in multiple sectors.
Long‑Term Career Pathways
- Begin a structured journey from Level 1 to Level 7 qualifications.
- Progress into supervisory and management roles over time.
- Explore careers in port management, logistics, and shipping operations.
- Build towards senior roles in maritime law, finance, or sustainability.
- Gain the foundation for consultancy or executive leadership in shipping.
- Use the award as the first step in a lifelong maritime career.
- Develop a vision for your professional growth in global trade.
- Position yourself for international recognition in the industry.
- Build a career that contributes to global commerce and connectivity.
