Most of the activity is within timetabled contact time, either in classroom or workshop. However, it is important that students realise the classroom and workshop time will give them access to the minimum skills and knowledge they require: to maximise their experience they should undertake additional reading, research and practical application.
The Certificate in Traditional Wooden Boatbuilding is criterion-referenced vocational training. To be awarded the qualification, students must satisfactorily obtain the learning outcomes of all of the modules. For each module, assessment criteria specify the particular skills and knowledge required for a particular aspect of work in the field. The course is delivered in such a way that all of the possible learning outcomes will be addressed during the timetabled delivery.
The Certificate in Traditional Wooden Boatbuilding is not a nationally-accredited course: that is, the qualification is not recognised under the Australian Qualifications Framework. Instead, it relies on the school’s increasing reputation around Australia for turning out boatbuilders who are competent in the classic, traditional methods of wooden boatbuilding — and who, even as students, build competent boats.
The standard of finished vessels built by students is surveyed by an independent marine surveyor. To date they have always been assessed as “best boatbuilding practice” and some have gone on to win major awards at boat shows, as well as cruising extensively in Australian and international waters.
Students will learn from extremely experienced and capable boatbuilders, through the sort of process of explanation, demonstration, coaching, and opportunity for independent practice that is characteristic of a master/apprentice relationship in a real working boatyard .
