On 2nd February 2026, the UK Chamber of Shipping’s Annual Dinner took place in London, attended by shipping companies, maritime colleges, government officials, and representatives across the maritime industry.
During the evening, one of the awards presented included the Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA) Officer Trainee of the Year 2025, presented by Aviation, Maritime and Decarbonisation Minister Keir Mather. We are delighted announce that this award was won by South Shields Marine School Cadet Alfie Allen, who we nominated for his outstanding commitment to his training, promoting a career at sea, and representing and supporting his fellow cadets. This was echoed by his training management company Just Be Maritime and his sponsor Trinity House.
The Officer Trainee of the Year is a prestigious award recognising an exceptional Merchant Navy officer trainee who has demonstrated high levels of academic achievement, professional progress, and personal leadership.
Simon Ashton, Principal of South Shields Marine School, said “It has been a pleasure watching Alfie grow from an inexperienced and passionate Deck Pre-Cadet to a very competent qualified Officer of the Watch. The award is highly deserved and recognises his determination and commitment to the maritime industry. We wish him the best for his future career.”
We would also like to extend our congratulators to Norman Hawkes, who was awarded Careers at Sea Ambassador of the Year, whose work to inspire many to start a career at sea was recognised during the evening.
