The Institute of Chartered Shipbrokers (ICS) has launched a ground-breaking initiative by using video conferencing to deliver education and training to Europe. Funded in part by the Suffolk Technical and Enterprise Council, the video conference link will enable students overseas to receive tutorials directly from a tutor based at the ICS in London. Using sophisticated software the tutor is not only visible on screen, he/she is also able to use the screen as an overhead projector and a blackboard. Initially launched in Italy, Spain and Portugal on November 30, 2000, the Institute’s Understanding Shipping course will be the first course to be delivered in this way.