MSC head Chris Thompson said, 'The advanced simulation software we'll be using will enable us to provide even better ship manoeuvring, tugging and pilotage scenarios, all with state of the art 3D geographic databases.

Clearer, more detailed digital images and better projection will provide our students even more realistic visual scenes which will enhance their learning experience. The systems will also enable us to provide a more integrated approach to tug skippers and pilots' training, so that they can develop a greater mutual understanding of their respective roles.'

Before Christmas, Svitzer Marine sent 20 tug engineers from their Tees and Tyne port facilities to South Tyneside College for a week long course based on the STCW'95 standards.

The course reviewed each individual's engineering strengths and training needs in a variety of areas such as general marine engineering, maintenance and repair, electrical engineering and legislative requirements. Follow-up short courses are directed in the required areas for each student, ensuring Svitzer's tug engineers are best equipped to cope with the increasing complexity of the company's newbuilds.

Gary Hindmarch, head of the Marine Engineering faculty at South Tyneside College said, 'Refreshing and revalidating workforce skills is a crucial part of ensuring a company's competitiveness and also brings great benefits to the individuals receiving the training. Svitzer Marine has taken a very positive, proactive approach to meeting their staff's needs and we hope that they secure long term benefits from the work that has been done.'

MJ Information No: 20316