Description

To equip new entrants to the maritime industry with practical skills and competence in general shipboard operations consistent with their duties on modern merchant vessels.

To enable new entrants to the maritime industry to adapt with confidence to the demands and opportunities of a team approach to shipboard operations.

To provide a pathway for ratings intending to pursue a career as a watchkeeping officer with foundation studies in relevant disciplines.

To provide a system of formally recognising the skills and knowledge brought by new entrants to the industry.

To provide a system of formally recognising the skills and knowledge of those already in the industry through the recognition of prior learning.

To raise the level of professionalism of Australian seafaring personnel.

On completion of the course, the students has:

* A basic knowledge of, and skills in, watchkeeping, general shipboard operations and maintenance.

* A firm basis for further development of knowledge and skills in practical work situations under supervision on board a vessel. Developed skills and understanding relevant to the acceptance of individual responsibility for tasks, and for operating as part of a team on board a vessel.

* A commitment to safe, effective working practices.

* An appropriate knowledge of rules, regulation and other relevant codes governing work on board a vessel