The Maritime Skills Academy (MSA) is proud to announce that our Polar Code Basic Course (POLAB) and Advanced Training Course (POLA) has received recognition from the Nautical Institute (NI).
Our courses are part of the Continuing Professional Development (CPD) that seafarers must undertake to gain the Ice Navigator Level 1 and Level 2 Certificate. This recognition makes the Maritime Skills Academy one of only two training centres in the world to hold this accreditation.
What is the Ice Navigator Training Accreditation and Certification Scheme?
The NI Ice Navigator Training Accreditation and Certification Scheme is required under the Polar Code, with a global standard in training and certification of Ice Navigators.
The NI Standard complies with relevant IMO resolutions and identifies the skills, competencies, and experience that are expected of an Ice Navigator. Officers that obtain NI Ice Navigator Level 1 or Level 2 Certification will possess an internationally recognised level of experience and competence in the operation of ships in ice.
Mark Jaenicke, Operations Director at the MSA said,
“We are thrilled to have received recognition from the Nautical Institute and to be able to offer these high-quality courses to seafarers.
“Our team of experienced Ice Captains and Ice Pilots has developed the courses to provide a comprehensive education and training program that meets the requirements of the STCW.
“With this recognition, we are confident that our courses will help seafarers improve their skills and advance their careers in polar navigation.”
What is the Polar Training Course?
The Polar Training Course is a comprehensive training program designed to equip seafarers with the necessary skills and knowledge required for navigating ships in polar waters. The scheme was set up as part of the Nautical Institute’s Ice Navigator Training Accreditation and Certification Scheme, which is required under the Polar Code.
The NI has developed this global standard in training and certification of Ice Navigators in compliance with relevant IMO resolutions; it identifies the skills, competencies, and experience expected of an ice navigator.
The NI Standard has two levels: Ice Navigator Level 1 and Ice Navigator Level 2. These are internationally recognised certificates that signify a high level of experience and competence in the operation of ships in ice.
Officers who obtain the NI Ice Navigator Level 1 or Level 2 Certification will possess the necessary skills and experience to navigate polar waters safely and effectively.
What Do the Courses Involve?
The Maritime Skills Academy offers two MCA Approved Polar Code Training courses:
The Polar Code Training (Basic) (POLAB) aims to provide seafarers on board polar-operating ships with education and training that meet the STCW requirements. The course covers the following topics:
- Polar Code overview and regulations
- Cold climate and its impact on the ship and crew
- Ice and its various forms
- Navigation in ice and low visibility
- Emergency procedures in ice-covered waters
The Polar Code Training (Advanced) (POLA) is intended for Masters and Officers in charge of the navigational watch involved in navigating ice conditions. The course covers the following topics:
- Plan and conduct a voyage in polar water
- Manage the safe operation of vessels operating in polar waters
- Maintain safety of the ship’s crew and passengers and the operational condition of life-saving, fire-fighting and other systems
Both courses have been developed by experienced Ice Captains and Ice Pilots, who are recognised leaders in the industry. Our instructors have extensive experience in navigating ships in polar waters, and help deliver these courses.
Upon successful completion of the course, seafarers will have the knowledge and skills necessary to operate ships safely and efficiently in polar waters.
Final Thoughts
We are proud to have received recognition from the Nautical Institute for its Polar Code Basic Course (POLAB) and Advanced Training Course (POLA).
By completing these courses, seafarers can gain the Ice Navigator Level 1 and Level 2 Certificate, which will provide internationally recognised experience and competence in the operation of ships in ice.
This opens up polar waters to more seafarers and provides an opportunity to further your career in polar seafaring.
If you’re interested in the Polar Code Basic Course (POLAB) or Advanced Training Course (POLA), please click here.
