ICC as said in my post - you are quite correct and giving them out 'willy nilly' has only been mentioned by you.
Ref taking ICC alone - of course that is an option but that is not the discussion.
Quote: but if someone can't pass the exam without it perhaps they should carefully consider their qualification to teach others anyway.
I would have thought but am not advocating it, that for someone who is going to teach, doing the whole course whole where a person is assessed and filthy habits they have picked up since passing theory and while watching other less than skilled players, would be ironed out by an instructor who puts them right all day evry day for a week and then they have to sit an exam that the examiner was sure that person was fit to teach others.
Afraid your statement seems to say a lesser standard is acceptable whereas someone who aims higher and wants the expert guidance is frowned upon.
Quote: It is all very well knowing the theory but if the owner of that knowledge is not capable of putting the theory into practise would you have faith in them?
I only have faith in me, what I can see and know is right and my ability to get myself an others out of mischief. Your statement applies to most people, including me, who achieving their YM or DS theory. Yet off they go - family in tow and trust to what they can remember gradually honing their skills and having narrow escapes or listening to others that they learn from. The RYA evening classes is supplying a lot of info, which if absorbed will keep you out of trouble but it is you who must make yourself skilled in its application (obviously)
However a slight digression it is good to know what others think but what we want is youngsters out on the water and learning NOW.