Supply officer cadets are generally recruited in their mid 20s to 30s, and hold BTEC qualifications in business studies or hotel and catering. Relevant experience either at sea or shore based is acceptable. Deck, Engineering and Supply Department Rating recruits are generally aged between 16 and 23. There are no academic entry requirements but personal qualities are important. Applicants should be keen, practical, able to work effectively in a team, and be prepared to carry out physically demanding work.
Training includes time at college and at sea.
People between 30 and 45 with shore-based experience in heavy engineering, shipbuilding or carpentry may be recruited as engineering ratings. Communication ratings are normally recruited between the age of 18 and 30 with GCSEs at Grade D in Maths or English. Computer experience is helpful. There is a 15 week training course to start with, leading to qualifications. Medical Assistants need to have relevant experience and training with the medical branch of the Royal Navy.