Training
Developing maritime skills is what we do
Training forms the backbone of our operations. We are, first and foremost, a maritime training charity and we aim to develop the practical skills of our members and their understanding and knowledge of all things maritime.
Our training Pathway
The Pathway is our recently-updated training document which you will receive at Induction.
Afloat training in the harbour
Afloat training ranges from dedicated sessions to learning from others on harbour patrols.
Training in the classroom
We run a full program of classroom theory sessions at every level of the Pathway.
Our training Pathway
Our training is split into distinct elements which allow you to develop your skills and build confidence without any pressure.
The program is structured over five steps:
- Induction – this process takes place over a single session when you join.
You’ll learn of our history, vessels and training program. You’ll also receive your own copy of the Pathway.
- Foundation – this course is all about giving you the essential skills to start boating safely.
Topics covered include, safety afloat, rope work, local knowledge, vessel terminology and charts.
- Competent Crew – this is all about acting as second-in-command, should something happen to the Coxswain. We will build on your knowledge and experience from Foundation and look at topics in a little more detail.
- Harbour Coxswain – this is when you take command!
The course is thorough and will guide you through navigation, the collision regulations, first aid and crew management.
On completion, you can take command of our vessels during daylight.
- Senior Coxswain – as a Senior Coxswain you’ll receive extra tuition in night navigation and the collision regulations, allowing you to take command of our vessels at night.
Training in the classroom
Theory classes usually take place on Saturday mornings, between 10am and 1pm.
There is no fixed schedule – classes are organised by the Training Coordinator based on demand.
Topics are taught and discussed in a relaxed way – if you don’t understand, it’s not a problem. We’ll go over that topic again until you do.
We want members to learn at a pace they are comfortable with and not feel under pressure.
We are lucky enough to enjoy good relations with other local organisations and are pleased to work closely with Powerboat Training UK and Dorset Maritime Training; two local schools with RYA accreditation.
It is often possible for our members to take part in RYA courses at reduced rates when the opportunity occurs.
Practical training afloat
Most of our practical activities take place throughout spring, summer and part of autumn.
Training in the harbour doesn’t necessarily only take place on designated training exercises – our work carrying out harbour patrols counts just as much.
Aside from our role supporting the Harbour Master, afloat sessions are also designed purely for fun, such as the Summer Challenge, where we make the most of the harbour to broaden our skills.
Practical training is conducted in several ways, all of which are relaxed and unhurried. These range from harbour patrols, to dedicated exercises in navigation as well as fun activities such as the summer challenge, where we make the most of the harbour to broaden our skills.
