Level 2 Award in Maritime Studies: STCW Safety

SQA code: GC25 62
Ofqual code: 603/4822/7
Total Qualification Time: 65 hours
Guided Learning Hours: 61
Credit value: 7

The International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for Seafarers (STCW) requires that seafarers are provided with 'familiarisation' and 'basic safety training' as covered in this qualification. This training is intended to ensure that seafarers are aware of the hazards of working on a vessel and can respond appropriately in an emergency.

The Level 2 Award in Maritime Studies: STCW Safety will develop knowledge and skills in areas such as survival in the water, fire prevention, fire-fighting, and emergency first aid.

This is one of several Level 2 Awards in Maritime Studies that have been developed by the Maritime Skills Alliance (MSA) for people who are working, or intending to work, in the maritime sector as a deck watch rating, able seafarer, tug/hand rating, or crew member on a large yacht. These qualifications are also relevant for anyone who wishes to go to sea as they meet the basic safety training required for all seafarers.

The Level 2 Award in Maritime Studies: STCW Safety may be available through employers, training providers and colleges.

Rationale and purpose of this qualification

The primary purpose of this qualification is to develop the learner's basic occupational safety and competence as a seafarer so that they can gain employment or work towards another qualification (see Progression).

As a work-related, competence-based qualification it provides confirmation to employers, industry managers that the learner has the skills and knowledge needed to meet the nationally recognised standard to carry out the role.

Learners who achieve this qualification can use it to gain employment, to progress in the industry, or to work towards another qualification.

Objectives

The qualification is designed to meet the following objectives:

  • preparing learners for employment
  • preparing learners to progress to another qualification
  • meeting relevant programmes of learning
  • giving learners personal growth and engagement in learning
  • supporting a role in the workplace
  • confirming knowledge, understanding and skills
  • to provide the training leading to the basic safety certification required to work at sea

Recognition

This qualification is intended for people in the maritime sector and has been developed in conjunction with the Merchant Navy Training Board and the Maritime and Coastguard Agency to ensure it is 'fit for purpose'.

What does this qualification cover?

As this is a competence-based qualification, learners will be acquiring the knowledge and skills required through either on-the-job experience or in a learning environment.

To gain the qualification, learners must achieve a total of five mandatory units (credit value 7).

Who is this qualification for?

The Level 2 Award in Maritime Studies STCW Safety is suitable for a wide range of learners including:

  • progression learners from basic maritime qualifications
  • employed learners who wish to enhance their career prospects
  • learners wishing to move from one sector of the maritime industry to another

Entry

Entry to the qualification is at the discretion of the centre.

Apprenticeship

This qualification is a mandatory component in the Maritime Trailblazer Apprenticeship Standard in England.

Progression

Learners may progress from the Level 2 Award in Maritime Studies: STCW Safety to a range of other qualifications at Level 2 and above.

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Qualification structure

Group award code: GC25 62
Ofqual qualification code: 603/4822/7

The Level 2 Award in Maritime Studies: STCW Safety consists of five mandatory units (credit value 7).

Please refer to the qualification structure (78 KB) for more information.

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How to assess

Ongoing course assessment will apply. Each unit specification gives detailed information on the assessment criteria, assessment (evidence) requirements and guidance on instruments of assessment for the unit.

The qualification is assessed by completing a portfolio of evidence which details what the learner has completed at work. This can be gathered through observation, professional discussion, witness testimony or supporting documentary evidence. The assessor can work alongside the learner to confirm that they have met the requirements of the qualification and that they are therefore competent in their role.

Competence is displayed through the assessor observing the learner demonstrate that they carry out their normal work activities competently and to the industry standard and comply with current legislation and company procedures.

The assessment process will ensure that the learner can complete the tasks that they have been directed to undertake and that they can interpret the instructions correctly. They will demonstrate that they can select the appropriate resources for the tasks and can complete them within the given timescales and specifications.

Learner portfolio

Assessment strategy/principle