Thames CPD
Working together to support the Thames community
The Thames Skills Academy, Port of London Authority and Company of Lightermen & Watermen have introduced the first Continuing Professional Development (CPD) programme for all Thames workers who hold a Boat Master’s licence, whether newly qualified or with years of experience. The programme is open to other navigational crew too.
Hear why the CPD is a win-win for employees and employers.
The prime objective is to improve safety on the Thames by enabling everyone joining the CPD programme to maintain and refresh their current skills and to learn new skills as the industry changes.
Find out more about the programme.Training & Development
The Thames CPD programme
Mandatory Courses
Core safety courses, such as first aid training, firefighting and personal survival techniques. Read more

Skills & Experience
Recognises years of experience on the Thames and includes informal training such as experience of tripping with other operators and visiting other regulatory bodies to understand their roles on the Thames. Read more

What is Continuing Professional Development (CPD)?
CPD refers to the process of tracking and documenting the skills, knowledge, experience and behaviours that you gain both formally and informally as you go about your work beyond any initial training. Read more

Why is CPD being introduced on the Thames?
CPD is being introduced to improved safety on the Thames. In many other sectors – transport, aviation, construction – CPD is a well-established pathway to incentivise everyone to maintain and refresh their current skills and learn and develop new skills as the industry changes. Read more

What is the Thames CPD Programme?
The Thames CPD programme was introduced in July 2021 as a voluntary scheme with the intention of becoming mandatory in two years’ time. Participants are required to achieve a minimum of 150 points across the three categories of Mandatory Courses; Accredited Training; and Skills & Experience within a five year period. The programme is free to join. Read more