NAFC student pays tribute to college

NAFC Marine Centre student Alan Moody received his engraved trophy on Wednesday, awarded for receiving the highest mark in the Class 1 Fishing Navigation exam.

With a background in fishing and boatbuilding, Mr Moody has been employed by Solent Towage in Southampton for the last two years, so he was unable to attend the annual prizegiving in December as he was at sea. On returning to the centre this month to undertake further study, staff were delighted to have the opportunity to award him his prize in person.

Mr Moody, originally from Wickford in Essex, had the NAFC Marine Centre recommended as the place to study for his Class 1 Certificate of Competency when he was unable to find suitable tuition elsewhere in the UK.

He has now returned to Shetland to undertake the Officer of the Watch conversion course, which will enable him to change career direction with a view to joining the Merchant Navy.

Asked why he decided to return to the NAFC Marine Centre, Mr Moody said: “The teaching environment at the centre is excellent and, of course, the location brings added benefits when you’re studying away from home, such as the first class on-site accommodation and the friendliness of the local people who always make you feel welcome.

“I’m extremely honoured to win this award. There is no doubt that, out of all the colleges I’ve attended in the past, studying at the NAFC has been the most productive in helping me achieve my goals.

“I’ll sit my final exam and then decide on my future from there. If I have the opportunity to study further courses at the NAFC I wouldn’t hesitate to come back. Shetland has a first class facility in the centre and the help and support of colleagues and staff is very much appreciated.”