Training the Trainers in Maritime Education: The Importance of a IMO Model Courses

In the dynamic world of maritime education and training, ensuring the competency of instructors is crucial not only for the success of individual seafarers but also for the safety and efficiency of the entire maritime industry. The International Maritime Organization (IMO), recognising this necessity, has developed the Model Course on Training of Trainers to equip maritime professionals with the skills and knowledge necessary to excel as educators. This blog delves into why the IMO Model Course is indispensable for maritime professionals in teaching roles at training centres or onboard ships.

Ensuring Compliance and Standardisation

One of the primary reasons the IMO Model Course is so significant is its role in establishing global standards and ensuring compliance with international regulations. Maritime training institutes and onboard training programs must adhere to these standards to guarantee that seafarers receive consistent, high-quality instruction regardless of their location or the institution where they receive their training. By implementing the IMO Model Course, trainers gain a comprehensive understanding of the methodologies, content, and evaluation criteria essential to effective maritime education.

Teacher teaching a class of students | Training the trainers in maritime education

Enhancing Teaching Skills

Teaching in the maritime sector demands a unique set of skills due to the complex nature of maritime operations and the diverse backgrounds of seafarers. The IMO Model Course empowers trainers with specialised training techniques tailored to the maritime environment. This includes effective communication strategies, practical demonstration skills, and the proficiency to create engaging and relevant training materials. Such skills not only improve the learning experience for seafarers but also contribute to the overall effectiveness of maritime education programs, instilling a sense of confidence and capability in the trainers.

Promoting Safety and Operational Efficiency

Safety is paramount in the maritime industry, and well-trained seafarers are essential to maintaining high safety standards onboard vessels. Trainers who have undergone the IMO Model Course are better equipped to impart critical safety protocols and operational procedures to their students. They can also effectively simulate real-world scenarios, preparing seafarers to handle emergencies and unforeseen situations confidently and competently. This proficiency not only contributes to vessels’ smooth operation but also fosters a sense of shared responsibility and community in enhancing the maritime industry’s overall safety culture.

Supporting Career Development

The IMO Model Course is not just a training program; it’s a personal and professional growth pathway for maritime professionals transitioning into teaching roles. It equips them with the necessary teaching skills and subject matter expertise to excel in their new career endeavours. Moreover, the IMO Model Course certification enhances their credibility within the industry. It opens doors to further maritime education and training opportunities, inspiring them to strive for career excellence.

Fostering Continuous Improvement

The maritime industry constantly evolves, driven by technological advancements, regulatory changes, and new operational challenges. Trainers who undergo the IMO Model Course are encouraged to engage in continuous professional development. They stay abreast of industry trends, update their teaching methodologies, and incorporate the latest best practices into their training programs. This commitment to continuous improvement ensures that maritime education remains relevant, effective, and responsive to the evolving needs of the industry.

In conclusion, the IMO Model Course on training the trainers plays a pivotal role in shaping the competence and professionalism of maritime instructors worldwide. By equipping trainers with standardised methodologies, specialised skills, and a commitment to safety and excellence, the IMO Model Course not only enhances the learning experience for seafarers but also contributes to the overall safety and efficiency of maritime operations. As the maritime industry evolves, well-trained and knowledgeable instructors are essential, making the IMO Model Course an indispensable asset for maritime professionals in teaching roles both ashore and at sea.

To find out more about the Train The Trainer course and available dates at the Maritime Skills Academy, click here

Viking Maritime Group Celebrates its 35th Anniversary

This year, the Viking Maritime Group, comprising of Viking Crew, Maritime Skills Academy, and Chiltern Maritime, celebrated its 35th anniversary, which extraordinarily marks 35 years of being in business!

To kick off our series of celebrations we held a fantastic party at the Hythe Imperial Hotel in Kent, UK, close to our head office in Dover, for all staff members from our offices across the world, including Dover, Portsmouth, Fort Lauderdale New Zealand and Guernsey.

This offered a chance for our staff to come together and celebrate the successes of the last 35 years of Viking Maritime Group.

The evening began with welcome drinks on the terrace in the sunshine, while being entertained by the Dukes of Swing Duo and wowed by the magical talents of Magician, Josh King.

Staff enjoyed a delicious three-course meal in the beautiful Ballroom, adorned with decorations and special touches.

Viking Maritime Group Celebrate 35th Anniversary at Hythe Imperial Hotel

A speech was made by Group Chairman and Founder, Dieter Jaenicke and a raffle full of spectacular prizes drawn. It was an inspiration to hear Dieter Jaenicke tell the story of how the Viking Maritime Group began and how it has become the global company it is today, offering a varied range of maritime services.

Group Managing Director, Matthew Jaenicke, said of the event: “As Group Managing Director, I feel very proud and humbled that almost every staff member from every company, across all our global offices, made it to the 35th anniversary event. The event itself was a great success, with everyone getting to meet each other in person and having a great time with lovely food and drink to accompany.”

Tracy Lyng, Administration Manager at the Maritime Skills Academy was at the event, having worked for the Viking family for over 20 years!

“Joining Viking back in 2003, I have had the pleasure of being part of the company’s growth from a mere 7 employees to a whopping 80 all over the globe. It’s been a journey and one that I have been proud to be a part of.”

Viking Maritime Group Celebrates 35th Anniversary

The evening came to a crescendo as staff danced the night away to a funky 7 piece band. It was remarkable to have the whole Viking family from all over the world come together to celebrate such an incredible milestone.

The event was fabulous; filled with laughter and nostalgia, and the perfect way to start a year of celebrations for Viking Maritime Group as we celebrate our 35th anniversary!

Date of Issue: 17th October 2023

Seawork

Seawork 2022 takes place from the 21st – 23rd June and is a ”one stop shop” for buyers, providing access to the commercial marine and workboat markets. It is the largest European commercial marine exhibition held at the prestigious Mayflower Park venue in Southampton.

Seawork offers a unique combination of undercover exhibition space, open air demonstrations and floating displays.

The Viking Maritime Group will be located at Stand G115 showcasing all that the group has to offer. 

Viking Crew – Maritime Crew Services Provider

Maritime Skills Academy – Maritime Training Provider

Mark Jaenicke, Training and Performance Director at the Maritime Skills Academy and Sam Kelly, Head of Training will be representing the Viking Maritime Group at the show.

If you are attending and would like to arrange a meeting, please email markj@vikingmsa.com or pop by the Viking Maritime Group stand and say hi.