Deck Introduction.

Introduction:

Deck Officer Trainees follow a programme leading to a MCA Officer of the Watch Certificate of Competency which comprises periods at sea and at college. A copy of your individual programme will be supplied to you and should be retained within your Training Record Book. This will record your progressive completion of training, both on board ship and at college, which must be made available to your company, college, the MCA and the SSTG on request.

During the course of the programme a number of elements must be completed, including the following:

  • Various short courses, such as the four basic STCW courses (Personal Survival Techniques, Elementary First Aid, Basic Fire Prevention and Fire Fighting and Personal Safety and Social Responsibility).
  • Various college studies and practical training in appropriate subjects such as navigation, seamanship, ship operations, meteorology, cargo operations and health and safety.
  • Practical training on board ship.
  • Demonstration of competent performance in the various duties and responsibilities of a Junior Deck Officer, either on board ship or under simulation ashore.
  • Successful completion of the aforementioned leads to the award of a Foundation Degree, Scottish Professional Diploma, Higher National Diploma, or similar in Nautical Science (although the exact title of the qualification may vary between institutions).
  • When all of the above elements have been completed, the Officer Trainee undergoes an oral examination by a MCA examiner as a final check that the required standards have been met. If successful, and medical and other administrative requirements are met, an Officer of the Watch Certificate of Competency is awarded by the MCA.

At various stages throughout the programme you will be tested and examined by a variety of means including written exams and tests, project and assignment work, and oral questioning. Subsequent progression to the higher levels of MN officer qualifications involves further study and training.

Throughout the training you will be carried as a supernumerary to the normal manning complement of the ships crew.

Updated:     May 2017.