The country’s first inland waterway continuing professional development (CPD) programme has been launched by the Thames Skills Academy (TSA), the Company of Watermen & Lightermen (CWL) and the Port of London Authority (PLA). The programme has been designed to help crews employed on the capital’s river build long-term careers.
Thames CPD focuses on mandatory safety courses, accredited formal training and “on the job” learning. Initially focused on those with a Boatmaster’s Licence (BML), it will be rolled out to include everyone working afloat.
Richard Everitt, TSA chairman, said: “Thames CPD is the result of detailed consultation with companies operating on the tidal Thames and their crews, as well as leisure users of the river.
I would like to thank everyone who has helped us with its development. I am delighted that Cory Riverside Energy, GPS Marine, Livett’s Group, Transport for London (TfL), PLA and Uber Boat by Thames Clippers have already joined the programme. As more companies and workers sign up, I look forward to it going from strength to strength in the years ahead. It’s a vital building block in ensuring the river’s continued prosperity.”
Derek Mann, master of CWL, who has worked on the river for over 50 years, said: “Whether you are 17 or 70, Thames CPD is a major step forward for everyone who makes their living on the river.
I encourage all my river colleagues to sign up to the Thames CPD programme. The world is changing fast, making it essential that river workers’ skills are up-to-date and fit for the challenges that lie ahead.”
Christopher Rodrigues, PLA chairman, said: “A well-trained, well-qualified workforce is central to maximising the river’s social, economic and environmental potential and achieving our Thames Vision 2050 goals.
Thames CPD, designed for and by river workers, will help maintain the Thames. the beating heart of London, as one of the world’s premier waterways.”
Jeremie Dousellin, who secured his BML in 2020 and recently joined the PLA from City Cruises, said: “Thames CPD is a chance for me to keep my skills and knowledge up to date.”
To find out more about the Thames CPD programme, including how to sign up, go to www.ThamesCPD.co.uk. A launch film is available on YouTube.
IN OTHER NEWS
=> Autumn dates for TSA featured training
The Personal Riverside Safety, Barge loading and Mooring courses
=> Join our next WOTW event
=> Reminder: Support for apprentices extended to 30th September 2021
As always, we are looking forward to your feedback and busy Summer and Autumn when we Build Back Better together.
Katherine Riggs
CEO of the Thames Skills Academy |
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