Student Spotlight - Robert - Blended Learning
Published on 23/01/2025 by CMCKE
Read about Robert's decision to study for Chief Mate (Unlimited) by blended learning from work aboard a superyacht and his home in South Africa.
Why did you decide to study by Blended Learning at FNC and what did you study?
I studied the HND Chief Mate Unlimited. I chose to complete the course via blended learning, as it enabled me to work and study at the same time. As a family man, it allowed me to still study while also allowing me to help with the kids. It was a win-win situation. Another reason is I am South African, which greatly reduced costs, as I was able to study from home and not have to incur the extra costs of living in the UK.
What had you previously studied, when and where?
I previously completed my HNC OOW unlimited at Liverpool John Moores University in 2016. I started my seagoing profession in the yachting industry.
Tell us about the roles you've had at sea - where you've been and what you've seen and done
I started in 2011 as a deckhand on 70m+ yachts mainly cruising the Med and Caribbean, and occasionally Scandinavia. After six years on deck, I took a year off and went to complete my Officer of the Watch (OOW) Unlimited. After completion of my OOW, I moved on to a 100m+ motor yacht where I have been for the last eight years. The highlight of my cruising is definitely Norway, unbelievable!
Why was the Merchant Navy your choice of career?
As a yachtie, you get the option to carry out yacht-specific officer courses. However, these are 3000 tonnage limited. The way of the yachting world is the vessels are being built bigger and better.
I decided to do the merchant navy route as I did not want to limit my opportunities in the yachting industry to a certain size of boat. I am very happy with my decision.
How did you find studying by Blended Learning? Good bits/not so good bits?
Blended learning has its pros and cons, more pros though. It enables you to work at your own pace and set your deadlines. Life can be busy, so this takes a lot of stress off your shoulders. The main cons are you can feel quite on your own occasionally, as you don't have teachers in the classroom to assist with on-the-spot difficulties, or fellow students to bounce off ideas.
What did you learn that has had the most impact/you got the most out of?
It is amazing how when you put your mind to something how you can actually figure it out and teach yourself with some reading material. Failing that, YouTube! I found it instructional.
What are you doing now and what are your career ambitions?
I am still working as a Second Officer on a 100m+ motor yacht, as I have only just qualified. My CV is out and I’m busy looking for a Chief Mate position, hoping to secure one shortly.
What would you say to anyone thinking studying by Blended Learning at FNC?
Do it, the team are very helpful and supportive. I would say, get in touch with other blended learning students, for the times late at night studying, you can engage with each other to tackle any challenges.
Anything else you'd like to tell us?
I'd like to take this opportunity to thank Katrina and the blended learning team for all their support over the last couple of years. I wish all the new and still enrolled students all the best and advise them to stick to their goals. Hard work pays off in the end!
To find out more about blended learning, click here.
