Guidance

MIN 692 (M+F) Navigation: vessel traffic services (VTS) – accreditation of prior learning

Published 4 August 2023

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This publication is available at https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/min-692-mf-navigation-vessel-traffic-services-vts-accreditation-of-prior-learning/min-692-mf-navigation-vessel-traffic-services-vts-accreditation-of-prior-learning

Summary

The purpose of this guidance note is to identify the standards of Vessel Traffic Service (VTS) Accreditation of Prior Learning (APL) and Accreditation of Prior Experiential Learning (APEL) recognised by the United Kingdom Competent Authority.

1. Introduction

1.1 It is recognised that candidates from a wide variety of backgrounds may wish to embark on a career in VTS. This notice expands on the existing guidance in MGN 434 (as amended) on the prerequisite requirements prior to commencement on C0103-1 VTS Operator Training. This MIN outlines MCA recognised Accreditation of Prior Learning and Accreditation of Prior Experiential Learning.

2. Accreditation of Prior Learning

2.1 Valid STCW Certificates of Competency (CoCs) which can be used to grant full Accreditation of Prior Learning for C0103-1 Module 4 – Nautical Knowledge:

  • STCW Reg II/1 OOW Unlimited
  • STCW Reg II/3 OOW Less than 500 GT, Near-Coastal Trading Area
  • STCW Reg II/2 Chief Mate Unlimited
  • STCW Reg II/2 Chief Mate Less than 3000 GT, Near-Coastal Trading Area
  • STCW Reg II/2 Chief Mate Less than 3000 GT, Unlimited area
  • STCW Reg II/2 Chief Mate Unlimited Tonnage, Near-Coastal Trading Area
  • STCW Reg II/2 Master Unlimited
  • STCW Reg II/2 Master Less than 3000 GT, Unlimited Area
  • STCW Reg II/2 Master Unlimited Tonnage, Near-Coastal Trading Area
  • STCW Reg II/3 Master Less than 500 GT, Near-Coastal Trading Area
  • STCW Reg II/3 Master Less than 3000 GT Near-Coastal, Specified Trading Area
  • Royal Navy Navigation Watch Certificate (NWC)

3. Accreditation of Prior Experiential Learning

3.1 Where yacht service is used as qualifying sea time, the same rules for sea time calculations apply as they would for eligibility in the UK to achieve STCW certification as detailed in MSN 1858 (as amended).

3.2 Upon receipt of a gap analysis to C0103-1 model course criteria, the MCA may also accept alternative occupations in lieu of a Certificate of Competency for full or part Accreditation of Prior Experiential Learning. Acceptable occupations include:

  • Harbour Masters, their Deputies or Assistants
  • Marine/ Port Managers
  • Marine Pilots
  • Marine Apprentices

This list is not exhaustive and applications from other occupations may also be considered on a case-by-case basis.

More information

UK Technical Services Navigation
Maritime and Coastguard Agency
Bay 2/22
Spring Place
105 Commercial Road
Southampton
SO15 1EG

Telephone: +44 (0)203 81 72000

Email: navigationsafety@mcga.gov.uk

Website: www.gov.uk/mca

Please note that all addresses and telephone numbers are correct at time of publishing.

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