Apprenticeship training course

Port agent (level 3)

There are 7 training providers who offer this course. Check if a training provider can deliver this training in the apprentice's work location.

Information about Port agent (level 3)

Represent the vessel operators or owners to facilitate the efficient arrival, working, and departure of their vessels in a port.

• Knowledge, skills and behaviours:
  View knowledge, skills and behaviours

  Knowledge

  • Local agencies and the regulatory authorities that impact Port Agency.
  • Procedures for managing the vessel / port information systems.
  • Regulations that apply to the different types of vessel class that may use Port Agency.
  • A range of different cargo types.
  • A range of stevedoring operations that can be used to load/unload cargo.
  • Techniques for responding to the changing conditions that can commonly hinder vessel progress including changes to tidal and meteorological conditions.
  • Type of Charter Party, agency agreements and terms relevant to each vessel and / or port visit.
  • Local customs clearance procedures.
  • Immigration processes for vessel leavers / joiners.
  • Relevant health and safety regulations and legislation.
  • The International Ship and Port Facility Security Code.
  • The principles for correct storing and sharing of data in accordance with the UK Government Data Protection legislation.
  • The local specialist Maritime roles and how they support Port activity. This includes, for example, appointed Person, Port Facility Security Officer (PFSO), mooring services, health professionals and marine / cargo surveyors.
  • Statutory powers of the relevant Port State, their responsibilities, duties and codes.
  • Negotiation techniques.
  • The principles of stakeholder relationship management.
  • Different forms of communication (written, verbal, electronic).
  • The banking procedures that impact vessels and crew. This includes cash availability, currency exchange rates, proof of receipt of payments and letters of credit.
  • Bills of lading, their function and importance in transactions.
  • Charges, terms and conditions of subject port / harbour authority of each vessel call.
  • Principles of project management and a range of project planning tools.
  • Principles of Port Agency related budget management.
  • Techniques for working alone and in a team.
  • The range of sustainable practices applicable to Port Agency including in-house practices and partner policies.

  Skills

  • Complete the required national and local reporting systems with required vessel and cargo data.
  • Identify and comply with all local, national and international regulations and legislation that apply.
  • Interpret and complete information required on International Maritime Organisation vessel / voyage information forms.
  • Identify the needs of the vessel (within limits of own authority).
  • Source vessel services for the time and place when these are needed.
  • Coordinate crew arrivals/departures required to meet ships complement.
  • Negotiate a positive outcome for the vessel that meets the contractual arrangement.
  • Identify and apply sustainable practices.
  • Plan and prioritise workload to meet objectives.
  • Identify and mitigate risks associated with the vessel and port operations.
  • Respond to unexpected situations and incidents, offering an appropriate remedy.
  • Adopt a communication method that takes account of the audience and is suitable for the circumstances.
  • Make informed recommendations that aid the vessels progress, prioritising health, safety and security.
  • Maintain a network of stakeholders.
  • Utilise the strengths of teams to support vessel progress.
  • Apply relevant IT reporting solutions to assist vessel progress, for example using software required by a particular Government covering the ports jurisdiction.
  • Report on vessel progress, using the required format (e.g., Maritime pro formas).
  • Store data correctly and only share data when it is permitted in accordance with legislation and regulation.
  • Comply with relevant health and safety procedures.
  • Comply with relevant security procedures.
  • Monitor vessel progress against expected plans.
  • Create the required disbursement accounts.
  • Create a required “Statement of Fact”.
  • Match supplier quotations with the services/goods needed to support vessel operations.
  • Apply project management techniques needed to deliver port agency within budget.
  • Provide financial services that meet needs of the vessel (within limits of given authority).
  • Quality assure work in accordance with organisational requirements and contractual arrangements.
  • Handle complaints in line with organisational requirements.
  • Problem solves changes in circumstances impacting vessel progress.

  Behaviours

  • Sources solutions and seeks to continuously improve and develop.
  • Resilient under pressure.
  • Team-focused and works effectively with others.
  • Acts in a professional and ethical manner.
  • Takes ownership of work.
  • Promotes sustainable practice.
• Apprenticeship category (sector): Transport and logistics
• Qualification level: 3; Equal to A level
• Course duration: 18 months
• Maximum funding: £13,000 ; Maximum government funding for ; apprenticeship training and assessment costs.
• Job titles include:
  • Port Agent
  • Ships Agent
  • Boarding Clerk

View more information about Port agent (level 3) from the Institute for Apprenticeships and Technical Education.