Student Spotlight - Jamie (Blended Learning)

Why did you decide to study by Blended Learning at FNC and what did you study?

I liked being able to study whilst still working and have a home life. I studied HNC Nautical Science.

What had you previously studied, when and where?        

Officer of the Watch 500gt Near Coastal.

Tell us about the roles you've had at sea - where you've been and what you've seen and done

I started as a deckhand in 2011 at the ripe old age of 29 having never been to sea before.  I was given the opportunity to do my OOW 500gt Near Coastal by the company I work for in 2014 and completed it in 2016.  I have worked around the UK, mostly doing harbour/dock towage with the occasional bit of offshore work.

Why was the Merchant Navy your choice of career?         

I fancied something with a bit of stability having spent many years ashore working on short term contracts.

How did you find studying by Blended Learning?  

I enjoyed being able to study at my own pace and not placing too much stress upon myself.  The majority of my studying was done whilst at work so that it had minimal impact on my home life. 

What did you learn that has had the most impact/you got the most out of?    

I enjoyed getting some insight into other operations that I have not experienced yet such as cargo work, celestial navigation and great circle sailing.      

What are you doing now and what are your career ambitions?

I’ve been employed as an OOW since 2016 on tugboats working out of Milford Haven in Pembrokeshire spending the odd few weeks working at other ports around the UK.  My next step is to get my Masters 500 to take the next step in my current role and then look at possibly attaining Chief Mate Unlimited and possibly Master Unlimited after that, to open doors later on in life once my children have grown up.

What would you say to anyone thinking studying by Blended Learning at FNC?

Go for it!  As long as you put the effort in, it’s attainable. The lecturers are very knowledgeable and very willing to help if you get stuck. 

If you think our Blended Learning approach can help you achieve your goals, get in touch by dropping us a line at blearning@blackpool.ac.uk  or call us on 01253 504746 to find out more.