A group of elected student leaders have responded to the UK Maritime and Coastguard Agency's consultation on the use of simulators in the cadet training programme on behalf of our fellow cadets at Warsash Maritime School (Solent University).
We outlined our support for the proposed 10-day accredited simulator course in lieu of one month of sea time. We feel this scheme strikes the right balance between sea and simulation time.
We are well aware of the importance and benefits of 'real' sea time during our training as cadets. However, our letter conveys a plethora of reasons supporting simulator time such as standardisation of training, variation of experience and enhanced ability to debrief.
Other countries, such as the Netherlands, have implemented simulator training with high reviews from seafarers. We call on other nautical colleges and bodies of cadets to respond to the consultation as we feel it is vitally important the MCA hear from current cadets as well as experienced seafarers.
Gareth Hampton
More letters
Britain's WW2 government acknowledged Merchant Navy sacrifice
As you will know, this year marks the 80th anniversary of VE Day. I enclose a copy of a transmission, sent by telegraphy in May 1945, from the Admiralty to 'all ships', expressing the victory message to the Merchant Navy, from the minister of war transport.
Warm QM2 welcome for Cunard war veteran
Knowing that we would be marking the 80th anniversary of VE Day this year, I was honoured recently to welcome onboard a Merchant Navy and Cunard veteran of the Second World War.
New addition to Hull historic trail celebrates maritime education
On 27 March 2025 at 12 noon, the Old Boys of the Hull Trinity House School Association and the Hull Trinity House Brethren held a ceremony to celebrate the work of Hull Trinity House School over more than two centuries.