Teignmouth RNLI volunteer reaches key milestone with Tier 2 Pass Out
Congratulations to Rachel Palmer, who has successfully completed her Tier 2 pass-out, marking the next major step in her RNLI volunteer journey at Teignmouth Lifeboat Station.
The Tier 2 assessment is a comprehensive evaluation designed to test a crew member’s ability to operate safely and effectively on an inshore lifeboat. Building on the skills from Tier 1, it includes seamanship, navigation, towing, anchoring, collision regulations, particularly during high-pressure scenarios.
Rachel’s assessment included a two-hour practical at sea, overseen by Trainee Assessor Lyle Stantiford. The practical was scenario-based, combining a man overboard rescue with the use of emergency steering, testing both Rachel’s skill and adaptability in a dynamic, real-world simulation.
“The assessment felt like a step up, but a great way to bring everything I’ve learned together,” Rachel said. “I’m really grateful to the crew at the station for all the support I have received, especially for running extra training sessions and passing on their invaluable knowledge. It made a big difference and helped me feel ready on the day.”
Speaking after the assessment Pete Shillabeer, volunteer Helm said that ‘the scenario wasn’t easy, but she handled it well and showed how she’s ready for the next step, including how Rachel can continue to develop her skills and areas to focus on as volunteer crew’.
Rachel joined the RNLI in 2023 and has thrown herself into training, including courses at the RNLI College in Poole. Her background in watersports, including rowing and sailing, has given her strong insight into the risks faced by those at sea and the importance of the RNLI’s work.
Now a qualified Tier 2 crew member, Rachel will continue to develop her skills as part of the Operational Competency Framework. Crew members train twice monthly to ensure they are ready to save lives at sea whenever the pager may sound.
Andy Lilburn, Teignmouth Lifeboat Operations Manager, shared congratulations on behalf of all the volunteers at Teignmouth Lifeboat Station saying “Rachel has shown real commitment and determination throughout her training. The Tier 2 pass-out is a challenging step, and she approached it with great professionalism and a positive attitude. We’re proud to have her as part of the team and look forward to seeing her continue to grow as a crew member.”
Key facts about the RNLI
The RNLI is the charity that saves lives at sea. Its volunteers provide a 24-hour search and rescue service around the United Kingdom and Republic of Ireland coasts. The RNLI operates 238 lifeboat stations in the UK and Ireland and more than 240 lifeguard units on beaches around the UK and Channel Islands. The RNLI is independent of Coastguard and government and depends on voluntary donations and legacies to maintain its rescue service. Since the RNLI was founded in 1824, its lifeboat crews and lifeguards have saved over 146,700 lives.
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Contacting the RNLI - public enquiries
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