Rolling five-year review of seafarer syllabus to ensure training fit for the future
A new rolling review of the UK maritime syllabus has been launched, led by the Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA) in partnership with industry, to ensure high-quality training that is fit for the future. Backing has been secured for five-yearly revisions of the UK syllabus that training centres must teach students to learn up-to-date skills ...
The United Kingdom's Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA) has initiated a five-year review of the seafarer syllabus, partnering with industry stakeholders to ensure the training remains relevant and effective for the future. This initiative is part of the Cadet Training and Modernisation (CT&M) Programme, launched in 2021, which aims to align learning with advancements in technology and practices in the maritime industry.
The review, endorsed by the CT&M Programme's Oversight Committee, will incorporate new technologies, enhanced safety standards, and improved practices into the syllabus. Training centers will now utilize electronic Training Record Books (eTRBs) and digital assessments to record and test students' skills. The next syllabus update is set to commence in 2030, following its rollout in 2029.
The review process involves a sub-group of the CT&M Programme, which meets quarterly to assess modules and now includes more representatives from shipping companies, training providers, and industry associations. MCA Chief Examiner Ajit Jacob emphasized the importance of equipping seafarers with the necessary skills to ensure safety, success, and environmental protection at sea.
Kevin Gregory, Director of the Merchant Navy Training Board (MNTB), highlighted the urgency of adapting to the rapidly evolving nature of vessel technologies, alternative fuels, and safety, environmental, and regulatory requirements. He stressed the significance of a collaborative review process that engages the entire maritime community, including industry, training providers, unions, and regulators, to maintain the syllabus's relevance and practicality.
The CT&M Programme was established based on the recommendations from the Seafarer and Cadet Training Review, launched by the Maritime Skills Commission in 2021. It is the first instance of a maritime regulator collaborating with industry experts to shape seafarer training, marking a significant step towards modernizing maritime education and professional development.
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