Student Spotlight - Blended Learning

Meet Joe Wiltshire.

Joe chose to study by Blended Learning at FNC as, being a flexible, remote learning approach, he could continue to work alongside his studies. He chose FNC after reading previous reviews of the course. Joe had not previously studied formally for about six years before starting his blended learning course.

Joe had always worked in the maritime sector. He started his career at 20 on superyachts as a contract engineer before deciding he wanted to pursue a career on deck. He then joined Thames Clippers in London where he worked his way from deckhand up to become a High-Speed Master instructor. After doing this for five years he decided to go back to yachts. Since then, Joe has had a few roles including deckhand, chase boat captain, lead hand, bosun and his current role as 2nd Officer. This has allowed him to travel with work to some incredible locations including the Caribbean, Mediterranean and the Middle East.

Joe believes Blended Learning was the perfect method to learn and progress his career. He feels that, as with anything, the more effort you put in, the more you get out of the course. Joe said that the lecturers were very knowledgeable and always willing to help anyway they could.

Joe completed his Advanced Certificate in Nautical Science by Blended Learning, as well as obtaining his Officer of the Watch Certificate of Competency. He is currently working as a 2nd Officer on a superyacht. His short-term plan is to start his Advanced Diploma with the Blended Learning team in the next 6 months, to work towards obtaining his Chief Mate Certificate of Competency in three to four years, then eventually do his Masters (Captains exam) in eight to ten years’ time.

When asked what he would say to anyone thinking studying by Blended Learning at FNC, Joe’s response was

"Go for it. There is a lot of work and is not an easy undertaking, but it is immensely satisfying when you finally walk away with your qualifications. Just take each topic at a time and chip away at it".

If the Blended Learning approach sounds like it will work for you to help you take the next step in you career, get in touch with us - drop us a line at blearning@blackpool.ac.uk or call us on 01253 504746.

You can also find out more at https://fleetwoodnautical.blackpool.ac.uk/distancelearning