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The syllabus for the Inland Waterways Helmsman's course

Due to time constraints and variations in course locations and equipment, not all subjects can be covered in great detail or practically afloat. We have therefore specified three levels of teaching to show you in how much depth you can expect each item to be covered.

These three levels are:

KNOWLEDGE OF: The subject will be briefly explained. Familiarisation occurs during the course and information on where to find out more is given.

UNDERSTANDS: The subject will be covered in more depth. You will be asked to demonstrate a basic understanding and go away from the course able to further develop your own skill in this area. Confirmation of your understanding of the subject may be achieved in a number of ways, such as question and answer sessions.

CAN: The subject will be covered in greater depth, including background theory, practical coaching and repeated practice by yourself until you can demonstrate the required level of skill in this subject.

Minimum age: 12 years - Duration: 2 days - Instructor to student ratio 1:3

Endorsement if aged 12-16 years and therefore the holder should only use powered craft under the supervision of a responsible adult (tick box if applies)

RYA Inland Waterways Helmsman's Course aims to give students the confidence to helm a vessel safely on the Inland Waterways.

 

SYLLABUS

Personal Safety

Understands:

·         The risks involved with ending up in the water, including cold shock

 

Can:

·         Correctly fit a buoyancy aid or life jacket

 

Engines

Understands:

·         Checks to be undertaken periodically

 

Can:

·         Undertake checks to be carried out before and whilst running

 

Deckwork

Knowledge of:

·         Common boating terms

 

Can:

·         Handle warps and fenders (if used)

·         Throw a heaving line or coiled rope

·         Tie the following:

o   Clove Hitch

o   Round turn and two half hitches

o   Bowline

o   Canalmans’ Hitch

·         Secure to:

o   Bollards

o   Rings

o   Cleats

o   Mooring stakes

 

Helmsmanship and Boat Handling

Knowledge of:

·         Berthing and unberthing between piles

 

Understands:

·         Loading and weight distribution

·         Inter-action and canal effect

·         Anchoring

·         Pivot points

 

Can:

·         Carefully steer a vessel

·         Turn a vessel around

·         Berth alongside

·         Recover a man overboard dummy

 

Locks

Understands:

·         Maintenance of levels

 

Can:

·         Operate a lock

·         Tend lines in a lock

 

Bridges and Tunnels

Understands:

·         Bridge operations

·         Use of tunnels

 

Collision Avoidance

Knowledge of:

·         The Rules of the Road

 

Understands:

·         Bye-laws and local traffic

 

Regulations

·        National regulations

·        Publications to be carried

 

Boat Safety

Knowledge of:

·         Use of fire extinguishers

·         Watertight integrity

 

Understands:

·         Fire hazards, particularly gas and petrol

·         Refloating after grounding

 

Care of the Environment

Understands:

·         Avoiding damage to banks, boats, flora and fauna

·         Pollution avoidance

·         Consideration for water users