Volunteering
Our watchkeepers come from all walks of life. Whilst some have sailing experience, many do not and whatever their background, everyone who wishes to become a qualified Watchkeeper must undergo a course of training.
No previous experience necessary
All members of Wooltack Point station are not only expected to carry out regular watchkeeping duties but also to attend station meetings and fund-raising events. Meetings may be held to conduct training or hold general meetings etc. They also provide members an opportunity to meet together other than when on watch. As our station is responsible for raising sufficient funds to meet our running costs, fund raising events are vital for the efficient upkeep of the station.
NCI Watchkeepers are an important part of the national search and rescue organisation and play a vital part in the safety of coastal users.
all training given
learn at your own pace
Training will be carried out, both at our station at Wooltack Point, with experienced watchkeepers whilst on watch and 7 on-line courses, each lasting around 2 hours.
An assessment to demonstrate knowledge of all the required competences will take place once the volunteer is ready and the trainer is confident that the volunteer will become an effective watchkeeper
The training is designed not only to make volunteers efficient watchkeepers of value to the community but also to increase their general knowledge of maritime matters
