About the Course

The Human Element Leadership and Management (HELM) course is designed to meet the mandatory requirements for training in the human element, leadership and management – management level as set out in Regulations II and III of the International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for Seafarers (STCW).

This course provides students with an understanding of the key human factors influencing effective Leadership and Management capability.

Target Audience

Masters and chief mates on ships of 500 gross tonnage or more; and chief engineers and second engineer officers on ships powered by main propulsion machinery of 750kW or more.

Course Content

• Working knowledge of shipboard personnel management and training.
• Need for international maritime conventions, recommendations and national legislation.
• Ability to apply task and workload management.

Learning Outcome

The course will equip you with the skills and knowledge to be able to control the operation of the ship and care for persons on board at the management level through the use leadership and managerial skills to ensure that:


• The crew are allocated duties and informed of expected standards of work and behaviour in a manner appropriate to the individuals concerned.
• Training objectives and activities are based on assessment of current competence and capabilities and operational requirements.
• Operations are planned and resources are allocated as needed in correct priority to perform the necessary tasks.
• Communication is clearly and unambiguously given and received.
• Effective leadership behaviours are demonstrated.
• Necessary team member(s) share an accurate understanding of current and predicted vessel state and operational status and external environment.
• Decisions are most effective for the situation.
• Operations are demonstrated to be effective and in accordance with applicable rules

Course Duration

5 days