Professional & Vocational Training

Changes are underway in the technical and vocational training fields in Cayman. Gone are the days when the only route to success was an academic one; now there are over 10,000 work permits in very well paid technical jobs which could easily be filled by Caymanians.

Companies like Inspire Cayman Training are stepping into the market and making sure that Caymanians get the proper technical training plus have on-the-job training from companies that are partnering with them. Students are also taught how the progression through lower entry jobs will eventually get them to the position they aspire to as long as they are willing to work hard, learn and be reliable.

For a complete list of the trade and vocational options available in the Cayman Islands please read on. If we have missed anything please feel free to send us an email and we can add it to our list.

Auto Repair & Maintenance

Inspire Cayman Training offers two automotive courses: an Introduction to Automotive and Automotive-Maintenance and Light Repair course. Both have been developed using the standards of the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE). The trainees that complete the courses have the opportunity to become ASE Entry-Level certified. For more information see their website.

UCCI also offers a 9–month programme that takes you to Level II and III. Students can then take a certification exam with the Institute of Motor Industry.

The Superior Auto Training Program (SATP) is a not-for-profit programme that teaches Caymanian students the fundamentals of auto repair. Call Denise on (345) 949 9570 or email sa@candw.ky for more information.

Beauty Technician Courses

Cayman Career Academy (CCA) s a spa and beauty school located in Smith Road Plaza, George Town. CAA is the first CIDESCO accredited beauty school in the Caribbean to offer world-renowned CIDESCO diploma and certificate courses. It is open to anyone over the age of 16 who is interested in pursuing a career in beauty therapy. They currently offer the full Beauty Therapy course, which takes 12 months to complete. For those who are already trained as a beauty therapist, and who have three years’ experience, they offer a three month post-graduate course.

In addition, they offer certifications in both Body Therapy and Facial Aesthetics that take six months each to complete. Newly added is the Beauty and Spa Management Course, which is a full-time, online course and takes about three months to complete. Alternatively, newcomers to the profession can do a modular certificate course that takes only three months and will qualify them as facialists. Students receive theoretical and practical training, obtain expertise and a CIDESCO diploma as well as certificates that will ensure they stand out to employers, not only locally but internationally. In Fall 2021, they began offering other new diploma and certificate courses. Day, evening and online class options and scholarships are available. Payment plans are also available. For more information see www.caymancareeracademy.ky or call (345) 936 2228.

Boat Training

Aside from helping beginners learn the ropes, boat training can help boost employability, give companies formal safety qualifications and even lower boat insurance. For private/non-commercial boat owners, training courses can often significantly lower your insurance costs – make sure to ask your insurer about discounted rates.

Sand Cay Boat Masters is an International Yacht Training Worldwide (IYT) authorised school run by Alastair Monro. Recreational courses available in Cayman include VHF Marine Communications Master SRC, Small Power Boat & Rib Master, International Crew (Sail), International Bareboat Skipper Sail, MCA International Certificate of Competence 24m Sail/10m power. Students need to be over 16 years old to obtain certification. The Rib Master course is popular with families with a runaround powerboat who wish to learn to operate it safely, and the International Bareboat Skipper course is popular with those with a little more experience and is the minimum qualification required to obtain your International Certificate of Competence which is required if you wish to charter a vessel of up to 24m long and 20 miles offshore. For more information contact Al Monro on (345) 328 5163 or email: almonro65@gmail.com.

Go Pro Diving offers two boat training certifications that are administered by an agency called MTCI (Maritime Training & Certification International). This agency is recognised by Malta and is compliant with the Caribbean Small Commercial Vessel Code. They offer the Level I Small Power Boat Operations course which is intended for new and seasoned recreational boaters wanting a licence. They also offer the Level II commercial boating licence which trains and certifies people for carrying passengers, taking night passages, and travelling a further distance off shore. For more information, call Ash McKnight on (345) 925 9092.

The Cayman Islands Sailing Club (CISC) now now offers the Sand Cay Boat Masters programme, which is authorised by International Yacht Training Worldwide (IYT) and run by Alistair Monro. A number of recreational courses are offered and students must be over 16 years old to obtain certification. The Rib Master course is a popular one with families who own a runaround powerboat and wish to learn to operate it safely. There is also an International Bareboat Skipper course which is popular with more experienced individuals. It is the minimum qualification required to obtain your International Certificate of Competence which is required if you want to charter a vessel of up to 24m long and 20 miles offshore. For more information contact Al Monro on (345) 328 5163 or email: almonro65@gmail.com.

Pro Yacht is an International Yacht Training Worldwide (IYT) authorised training and instructor school offering certified courses for all levels of boaters ranging from Personal Watercraft and VHF Communications to the most popular course, Small Powerboat and RIB Master. The Small Powerboat and RIB Master is a two day certified course covering the basics of boat handling, operations and safety perfect for families and children 16 and older. Classes are limited to 3 students for more personal instruction. Call Tristan Skinner on (345) 945 4676 or email: tskinner@proyacht.ky to book a course. Red Sail Sports is also credited as an International Yacht Training school and they offer a variety of courses. Email: info@redsailcayman.com for more information. Other powerboat courses can be taken at Cayman Powerboat School which is run by Mark Williams and he offers the RYA Powerboat Level II course. To book or for more information call Mark on (345) 916 4731 or email him on mark@caymandiving.com.

Building & Construction

UCCI offers various courses which will help those get a job in the construction industry:

• Building Maintenance: this programme is run in conjunction with Dart. Part I is devoted to Electrical Service Maintenance, Part II to Plumbing Service Maintenance and Part III to AC System Maintenance. This programme is primarily aimed at Building Maintenance Personnel who are responsible for the monitoring and maintenance of services in commercial and public buildings. It is intended to provide a solid foundation in Building Systems Maintenance and Control for plumbing, electrical, air-conditioning and security systems. Note: a course in Safe Working Practice is mandatory prior to commencing the programme. This is conducted by an OSHA-authorised Instructor in conjunction with the Department of Labour and Pensions.
• Fundamentals of Construction: This programme runs over three semesters (classroom and workshop-based) and although it is designed for practitioners in the construction sector (who require theoretical skills upgrading), it is also suitable for those wishing to gain insight into the many facets of construction work. The objectives are to instil sound working practices, develop an appreciation for the technologies involved, upgrade existing levels of competence and develop an awareness of building regulations and specifications.
• Project Management: This is a one-semester (classroom-based) course intended for people employed in the construction industry. It aims to expose participants to the managerial aspects of the construction industry and is designed to give an introduction to the Project Delivery System.

Coding & Computer Technicians

Cayman Code Academy utilises the proven curriculum of Code Fellows, an internationally recognised coding school to offer full-time remote classes with the help of Cayman Enterprise City. Access classes virtually, and interact in real-time with the instructional team. The programme is available to those with little or no experience of the world of programming, and it allows those with some level of programming experience to advance in their field. For more information visit the Cayman Code Academy website www.caymancodeacademy.com or email: info@caymancodeacademy.com.

UCCI offers a one-year full time Computer Technician Certificate that introduces students to the fundamentals of computer hardware and software, mobile devices, security and networking concepts, and the responsibility of an IT professional. The latest curriculum includes mobile devices, Linux, as well as expanded information about Microsoft Windows operating systems, security, networking and troubleshooting.

Dive Instructor Training

If you are looking to make scuba diving your career, then you will have to become a PADI Dive Master before you can take the PADI Dive Instructor training course. Go Pro Diving offers all levels of dive training up to Master Scuba Diver Trainer (MSDT) and they regularly work with the Fire Department, UCCI and CIFEC. For more information call Ash on (345) 925 9092 or see their website www.goprocayman.com.

Red Sail Sports offers many PADI dive certification courses from the Open Water upwards and a DOE Lion Fish Culling speciality.

Domestic Help

The Minerva Academy is a registered training school for your private staff in Cayman. Their courses are designed to give or refresh skills for domestic staff who look after high-standard households and families of high-performing busy individuals. Courses are offered à-la-carte in a group classroom format or in a one-to-one setting tailored to your needs, and they are taught by experienced professionals certified by international butler institutions.

Professional Training - Financial Services

There are numerous training centres on Island, much of which specifically cater to the financial services industry. Colleges and other tertiary educational centres in Cayman also offer short certification courses. For Training Centres that can help get you or your staff on track see the list below.

The Cayman Islands Marketing Professionals Association (CIMPA) runs professional development courses on a variety of topics including public speaking, SEO optimisation, event planning, budget management, and analytics. They also offer a university scholarship. Members and non-members are welcome. Email: training@cimpa.ky.

Every year the Cayman Islands Society of Human Resources Professionals (CISHRP) offers a certificate in HR Management course which includes modules on Cayman's immigration, pension and labour laws, health insurance rules and the Essentials of HR Management. Exams are scheduled twice a year. See www.cishrp.ky or email: info@cishrp.ky for more information.

All regular members of the Cayman Islands Institute of Professional Accountants (CIIPA) training committee develops a calendar of training to meet the diverse needs of their membership and to support their professional development. As a full member of IFAC, CIIPA is committed to ensuring their members are able to meet the International Education Standards which are set by the International Accounting Education Standards Board (IAESB). Visit www.ciipa.ky/Live-Training for details or email: admin@ciipa.ky for specific requests.

Chamber of Commerce Professional Development & Training Centre offers a comprehensive range of two-hour, four-hour, one-day and two-day courses on topics in the following categories: Legal Assist; Ken Blanchard Leadership Series; Workplace Essentials; Made For You; Small Biz Boot Camp. The Centre has also begun to offer select courses virtually. Go online or call the Chamber to find out more. Governors Square, West Bay Road. Tel: (345) 949 8090 or visit www.caymanchamber.ky.

Innovative Management & Professional Training (IMPT)
They offer two accounting programmes: the ACCA Qualification and the Foundations in Accountancy, as well as the ICSA certificate in Offshore Finance and Administration, the Certificate in Offshore Banking Practice (from the Chartered Banker) and Certifications in Management from the Institute of Leadership and Management (ILM). They also offer computer training courses and various business skills training courses. Tel: (345) 943 4678.

Hospitality & Culinary

UCCI offers various certification courses, including stand-alone short and hobby courses, delivered over 7 to 14 weeks to people of all ages and abilities. These include Cake Decorating, Bread Making and Cooking Principles. Their Certificate in Hospitality and Tourism programme (3 semesters, full-time) is designed to prepare students for a successful and rewarding career in the Hospitality Industry. Students develop skills that would assist them to function effectively in the hospitality sector in the areas of administration, accounting, human resources, marketing and operations. Students gain exposure to the world of work through job placement, as well as the principles, techniques and ideas involved in the Hospitality Sector in the key areas: legal and illegal practices of the workplace, costing methods for maximum profitability, decision-making and key marketing principles related to hotel and restaurant businesses. Learn more about their Hospitality, Food and Beverage, Food Preparation and Front Office programme(s) by visiting www.ucci.edu.ky.

Occupational Safety & Health

Risk Consultancy Services Ltd. (RCS) offers a 30–hour OSHA (Occupational Safety & Health) training programme in rigging and lifting procedures for crane operations, fall protection training, scaffold building, forklift operator training, hazardous material handling, fire warden training and PHTLS training (pre-hospital trauma life support). They also offer a full risk management consultancy service for the construction industry. Call Julius Jacky on (345) 326 1007 or email: julius.jacky@rcs.ky for more information.

Personal Trainer Certification Courses

Fitness Connection located in South Sound, runs ongoing ISCA programmes in kick boxing, personal training and Mat Pilates, AEA (Aquatic Fitness Instructor Certification), as well as SAI swimming instructor training courses. The instructor/owner, Laura Ribbins, has been an international training specialist for over 30 years. Call Laura Ribbins on (345) 949 8485 or email fitness@fitness.ky for more information.

Bliss Living Yoga (Tel: (345) 949 9642) has offered the Yoga Alliance RYT200 Registered Yoga Teacher course in the past. Contact them directly to find out when they are offering it again.

Plumbing/Electrical/Electrical Technology Courses

Inspire Cayman Training (ICT) offers NCCER and ASE certified courses in craft professions (Carpentry, Plumbing, HVAC, Electrical and Construction Craft Labourer). Partnering with Caribbean Utilities Company (CUC), courses are taught at Grade 8 standard. ICT provides portable credentials to all trainees and these credentials are tracked through NCCER's Registry System, which allows all organisations to track the qualifications of their craft professionals and check the qualifications of possible new hires. Trainees must achieve a passing score of 70% or greater on the module test and performance profile to earn a certification. ICT provides portable credentials to all trainees. These credentials are tracked through NCCER’s Registry System that allows organisations and companies to track the qualifications of their craft professionals and/or check the qualifications of possible new hires. Trainees must achieve a passing score of 70% or greater on the module test and performance profile to earn a certification. For more information see www.inspirecaymantraining.com.

UCCI offers multiple technical and vocational courses that include working in the field with employers who offer the practical side of the training. The courses include:

a) Air Conditioning and Refrigeration: focuses on the practical skills and knowledge required to install, service and maintain refrigeration and air-conditioning systems. Upon successful completion of this qualification, the learners will be well equipped to start or progress their careers in the refrigeration and air-conditioning industry.

b) Plumbing: the level 1 course aims to provide instruction, demonstration and practical experiences to facilitate the acquisition of basic skills. Students will learn to handle and store plumbing materials, use plumbing hand and power tools, read plans and calculate plumbing quantities, cut and join sheet metal and much more. The level 2 course prepares students for an industry-recognised qualification at an entry level. Building on competencies gained at Level 1, progress to a comprehensive understanding of domestic plumbing, covering both theory and practical, to enable them to work successfully as a Licensed Plumber.

c) Electrical Installation: the level 1 certificate serves as an introduction to the skills required to carry out a range of electrical installation activities needed to start working in the industry. The level 2 certificate Is a continuation of level 1 and is designed to give you the required level of understanding and knowledge to progress onto the Level 3 qualification and ultimately, to become a qualified Electrician.

d) Electro-Technology: this course is designed in conjunction with the Cayman Islands Contractors Association to create a young technician entry-level workforce that can make the progression to licensed status and beyond. Students will acquire a range of technical, practical, personal and organisational skills that are of value within and beyond the workplace. Graduates are eligible to enter the Associate Degree in Engineering Technology programme at UCCI.

Community Vocational Training Centre offer a course on how to do electrical wiring. The course is free, open to students aged 17+ and there are no entry requirements. The course is held in the evening from 6pm–8pm. Call Allan Moore on (345) 917 7320.

Cayman Islands Fire Service

Firefighting is an extremely physical career path. To join the Cayman Islands Fire Service you must be over 18 years of age, be able to regularly lift 20-30lbs, and occasionally lift up to 165lbs. You must also be physically fit, be able to swim, have a clean police record, have no fear of heights and show no signs of claustrophobia. Applications are welcomed from both men and women. All officers must complete a Trainee Firefighter course, which is a comprehensive course that covers all areas that the Cayman Islands Fire Service is responsible for. This includes the Domestic Division (which deals with structure and motor vehicle fires) and the Aerodrome Division (which deals with aeronautical/aircraft rescue and firefighting, etc.) Completion of this comprehensive Trainee Firefighter Course will give you an internationally recognised certification in Aeronautical Firefighting. The Fire Service also offers internships, which can be a great way to get involved with the Service early on. For more information visit www.cifs.gov.ky or call: (345) 949 2276.

Cayman Islands Prison Service

To join Her Majesty’s Cayman Islands Prison Service (H.M.C.I.P.S) there are the following requirements: you must be 18 or over, have three high school pass grades (inc. Maths and English), and a clear criminal record. The recruitment process involves three stages:

• 1) passing a written exam
• 2) passing a fitness assessment
• 3) an in person interview

If successful, you will begin a nine to eleven week training course comprised of classroom work and field based training that will lead to a six months probationary contract followed by an open contract (for Caymanians) and a two-year contract (for non-Caymanians). Tel: (345) 640 3000 or email: prisoncareers@gov.ky.

Royal Cayman Islands Police Service (RCIPS)

The RCIPS gives preference to applicants who are Caymanian, married to a Caymanian, and persons with Caymanian Residence with the Right to Work when selecting applicants who are eligible to join as Police Constables (Recruit). Over the years, based on the needs and exigencies of the service and/or the volume of interested preferred applicants, the criteria may be adjusted to allow persons who have been living in the Cayman Islands for over four years to apply. On these occasions, the slots have been filled with as many applicants who are Caymanian as possible, after which, consideration is given to those married to a Caymanian, people with PR, and finally to those who have lived in the Cayman Islands for four continuous years or more.

All applicants must be between the ages of 18 – 40 years, have a minimum of a High School Diploma and three CXC or equivalent passes which must include both Mathematics and English. The applicant must have a clean police record and possess a driver’s licence of Group 2 or higher. Applicants are required to take a written test, a computer proficiency test, and a physical test – a 5.4 bleep test. Applicants must also go through an interview stage in the application process and must also pass a medical examination and a police background check. After completing this process, applicants will be invited to join a training programme of 17 weeks. At the completion of the training, a requirement for graduation is to pass a final written exam. Once completed, the officers are placed on a two-year probation where their progress is monitored during that period of time.

The RCIPS is comprised of various units such as the Traffic and Roads Policing Unit, the Community Policing Unit, the Firearm Response Unit, the K-9 Unit, various units within Criminal Investigations Department, and much more. During the probation period, officers will have the opportunity to interact with the various Units and explore areas that they have a natural inclination for. Upon the recommendation of their line managers, the officer may apply to a specialist unit, should they wish to do so. For more information, visit the RCIPS website at www.rcips.ky or email: RCIPSRecruitment@rcips.ky. To apply at open recruitment, visit www.careers.gov.ky – recruitment season varies from year to year.

WORC Support

Passport2Success
The programme began in 2010 as an initiative offered through Workforce Opportunities and Residency Cayman (WORC) and is supported by some of Cayman's major employers. This employment preparedness course is geared towards Caymanians and designed to enhance workplace readiness skills and increase the employability of its participants, developing skills through training seminars, therapeutic intervention, community service and work experience. All applicants will be required to register with WORC which provides access to the Jobs Cayman portal, connecting job seekers with employment opportunities and the Training and Development Unit, to access training, internship and apprenticeship opportunities. To apply for a place on the course email: WORC.training@gov.ky.

Ready2Work is a Government programme for Caymanian job seekers who are unemployed, underemployed or simply seeking a career change, and high school or recent university graduates. The programme delivers structured training, individual and group guidance and other support mechanisms to mitigate the barriers to accessing gainful employment. Ready2Work partners with private sector employers seeking to connect with local talent interested in gainful employment. Private sector businesses can access a subsidy, which provides funding to assist with the costs of participating in the programme. For more information call (345) 244 4048 or email: Ready2Work@gov.ky.

Child Safeguarding Training Requirements

It is worth noting that all volunteers and staff that work in an educational institution must undergo Ministry of Education approved safeguarding training. What it involves, and how often you have to do it, is outlined below.

Pre-Employment Training
A Ministry of Education approved training must be done before anyone who works in an educational institution can start work. This only needs to be done once but a refresher course is recommended every four years. The options include:

Darkness to Light
Two modules are required and both can be online: i) Stewards of Children and ii) Recognising Child Abuse and Neglect. You can contact the Cayman Islands Red Cross on vrm@redcross.org.ky to learn about how to sign up for the course.

Other alternative training courses can be used but they must be approved by the Ministry of Education. Approved courses include Second Step’s ‘Child Protection Unit’ Module 2 and EduCare’s ‘Child Protection Course’.

Once Employed in an Educational institution
In addition to the Darkness to Light Modules 1 and 2 training, or their alternative, everyone who works in an educational institution must take the Ministry of Education’s Child Safeguarding Workshop (CSW) Modules 1 and 2. This training must be taken every 3 years and must be taken at the first opportunity after someone has commenced employment in an educational institution.

Child Safeguarding Workshop Online Module
This course has been developed in Cayman specifically for Cayman. Anyone who works in an educational institution, or anyone who is subcontracted to work in an educational institution, must take this course once every 3 years. The first part is done online and can be accessed by contacting the Camila Ferreira at the Ministry of Education on email: camila.ferreira@gov.ky. The second part, which involves trained trainers must be booked in.

Child Safeguarding’s Skills Development & Practical In-Person Module
This section of the Child Safeguarding Workshop covers the policies, procedures and laws in relation to child protection in the Cayman Islands. This course has been developed in Cayman specifically for Cayman. Anyone who works in an educational institution, or anyone who is subcontracted to work in an educational institution, must take this course once every 3 years. The first part is done online and can be accessed by contacting Camila Ferreira at the Ministry of Education on email: camila.ferreira@gov.ky. The second part, which involves trained trainers, must be booked in.

Ongoing Training and Refresher Courses
At the beginning of each new school year, each educational institution is required to carry out two mini training courses that cover child safeguarding training. These are made up of:

a) A review of the educational institution’s ‘Policies and Procedures’ with their staff. See below. The Ministry of Education can give an educational institution a child protection policy template that each school can adapt and adopt for their setting.

b) Cover a safeguarding topic of the school’s choice. For example, they can chat about how to recognize or respond to disclosures.

Important to Know
There are three policies under the child protection umbrella

1) The Reporting Policy
- Who reports, under what timeframe and how do they report a suspicion or problem

2) Staff Code of Conduct
- Behaviours (appropriate and inappropriate) are outlined, general conduct, communication and physical behaviour.

3) Safe Environment Policy
- Outlines how to ensure an environment is safe and protective, including guidelines for visibility, supervision and controlling access.

Reporting
In an education institution a staff member would follow that institutions’ abuse and neglect reporting policy. The institution would often have one person assigned as the ‘Child Protection Officer’, or the ‘Designated Safeguarding Lead’ and this person would fill out the MASH form. MASH stands for Multi Agency Safeguarding Hub and it is made up of the DCFS (Department of Children and Family Services) plus the Family Support Unit of the Police. This form then gets emailed to MASH@gov.ky and the report is escalated. All schools should have the forms but they can also be requested from the Ministry of Education or from MASH.

If you witness abusive behavior outside of an educational institution it is recommended that you call MASH, or after hours, the police. If a parent has a concern, they can contact MASH directly on tel: (345) 945-0545.