School of Navigation - 1966-1971

1966: Saw the first phase of the building programme being completed. During this phase, buildings completed were the classroom block, library/ theatre block, new officer's house, old officer's house, and the Cadet Block, refectory, workshops/boathouse and seamanship room.

1967: A BSc Nautical degree course was started by the School of Navigation together with the University of Southampton. Tanker safety courses also started that year.

The twin screw motor yacht "Zavidia" was purchased and fitted out as a radar instruction vessel and renamed "Somerset" She replaced the ex Admiralty pinnace "South Hill".

September 1969: Capt. Wakeford applied for and was granted a year's sabbatical leave prior to his retirement and Capt H.Stewart was appointed Director Designate for the year, having been Deputy Director and Captain Superintendent.

September 1970: Capt. Stewart was appointed Director and Capt. W.Willsteed Deputy Director. An Ordinary National Certificate in Nautical Studies, deck cadet scheme was started at the same time. This was to replace the traditional one year pre sea course, with the majority of Cadets sponsored by shipping companies. The course comprised a one term pre-sea, three term mid cadet course, and two term final course leading to the award of a certificate and sitting the first professional examination.