Transport and logistics apprenticeships

Level 3 International Freight Forwarding Apprenticeship

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Compliance rule and law graphic coming out of a tablet.

Do you have a passion for national and international laws and regulations? If so, a future career in international freight forwarding seems like the perfect fit. With customs and regulations constantly changing, this industry is always in need of up-and-coming individuals to take control. Read on to discover why this apprenticeship could benefit you.

What Does the Role Consist of?

As an international freight forwarding specialist, your role will consist of many different aspects so you’ll gain large amounts of knowledge that can be used throughout your future career. Ranging from customs procedures to terms of trade this role is a fantastic way to begin in the business industry. 

A large portion of the role will be building relationships nationally and internationally with clients showcasing your customer service skills. Your role will require you to look after international supply chains and ensure that they are fully secure, efficient, and compliant with current regulations. Being an international freight forwarder is extremely rewarding as you get to see the process from start to finish and take responsibility for goods and transport. 

Entry Requirements for Level 3 International Freight Forwarding

Entry requirements are typically set by employers, so can differ from business to business. Ideally, a Level 2 in English and Maths will have been achieved prior to the course. However, there is the option to complete these during your apprenticeship, and if you think more time will be needed to complete these please factor it into your studying.  

Key Skills and Responsibilities

You will learn the rules of customs, import and export laws, and regulations from industry experts. Becoming a specialist will mean you are responsible for a variety of tasks daily such as shipment bookings, creating the appropriate documents, communication with carriers, and sales quotes. Also, as an international freight forwarder, you will develop specific skills around the classification of goods and relevant paper and electronic documentation, which are transferable skills that can be utilised in many industries. Another invaluable skill is customer service, which you will continue to establish throughout the apprenticeship.

Level 3 International Freight Forwarding Core Behaviours

You will be required to adhere to your job role while meeting several core behaviours, these include:

  • Shows entrepreneurial skills.
  • The individual is proactive.
  • Highly organised, careful and diligent in data entry and written work.
  • Seeks to learn from experienced colleagues and team members.
  • Is open to feedback on work performance.
  • Seeks to build respect among colleagues and team members.
  • Demonstrates teamwork throughout the job role.
  • Communicates accurately and effectively with colleagues and customers.
  • Is a good listener.

You will gain the core knowledge and skills in freight forwarding as seen above, which will then lead to you choosing one of three pathways. In the chosen pathway you will gain further knowledge and skills to help advance your career. The three pathways are air freight, ocean freight, and road freight, you will only continue with one of these which will lead to the end of your apprenticeship. 

Image containing all international freight forwarding methods. Air freight, ocean freight and road freight.

Finally, this International Freight Forwarding Specialist apprenticeship is a unique program, providing you with an excellent balance of on and off-the-job learning. The course will run for 18 months and then you’ll complete an end-point assessment. By completing this apprenticeship, you will have the opportunity to progress to higher levels of learning throughout your professional career. 

Conclusion 

Overall, this level 3 international freight forwarding apprenticeship is a fantastic way to get started in the international business sector. Gaining invaluable knowledge such as transport requirements, invoicing, financial procedures, and much more will lead to you becoming a successful international freight forwarding specialist. 

Don’t miss out on this amazing opportunity to earn while you learn. 

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Level 3 Boatmaster Apprenticeship

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Boatmaster apprentice on water

Have you ever wanted to take control of a boat or ship travelling through the water? If this Boatmaster Apprenticeship sounds like something of interest, read on to find out more!

What does a Boatmaster Apprenticeship involve?

Boatmasters are essentially people who operate a vessel and navigate them through busy waterways. This could range from being the captain of a tourist boat, supporting a company in transporting bulk goods to a port, or even operating a ferry with passengers on-board.

Some of the most popular places this apprenticeship offers work on includes the Rivers Thames, Humber and Mersey. Although, sometimes Boatmasters go out in to the sea, but rest assured, you’re never far from the shore (never more than 5 miles from land).

The journeys made on these vessels are usually quite short; never more than 15 miles from the point of departure to arrival.

What are the main responsibilities?

As a Boatmaster, your main responsibilities are handling the boat or ship confidently, planning the journey or navigation, and of course to ensure safe mooring and anchoring.

You will learn how to use the equipment on-board, as well as the mechanics of the vessel, which are extremely important so you can ensure safe operation and travel.

What are some skills you will gain along the way?

Below are some of the skills and behaviours that are vital in this job role, and doing this apprenticeship will teach you most of them:

  • Confidence
  • Safety
  • Independence
  • Organisation
  • Communication
  • Navigation
  • Manoeuvring
  • Responsibility
  • Leadership
  • Calm under pressure

Furthermore, you will be gaining over 20 nationally recognised industry qualifications, meaning all of your work really pays off and you have lots of certificates as evidence to show for it.

Thames Clipper in the River Thames

What qualifications do you need to apply to this apprenticeship?

You will need to obtain a Tier 1 Level 2 Boatmasters Licence, at least before moving forward to your End-Point Assessment at the end of the apprenticeship.

Additionally, you will be required to show evidence of Level 2 English and Maths qualifications prior to taking the EPA. However, if you have had an education, health and care plan or a legacy statement, you will need Level 3 English and Maths.

Apart from these three things, you aren’t required to have any past experience with boats, as the great thing about apprenticeships are they enable you to learn while you earn. You earn not only the amazing amount of qualifications and recognition, but also a salary while all of the learning is paid for, so no need to worry about any University debt.

Where can this qualification take you?

As mentioned previously, Boatmasters can use their skills in a range of different career paths. From being in control of a ferry with passengers, getting them from one destination to another, to transporting bulk goods for a large company across the water, there’s a variety of jobs available. You can even be in charge of much bigger vessels, perhaps a cruise or a yaht, or perhaps take your love for boats further to join the Royal Navy!

Conclusion

The apprenticeship itself is a 24 month long course, resulting in a Level 3 qualification. It’s important to note that following the apprenticeship, you will need to gain additional certificates from the MCA to continue with this career path. So, the learning doesn’t stop after this 24 month period, which is great if you love to keep learning and developing!

If becoming a Boatmaster is something you’re interested in, find out more about this great apprenticeship here. Equally, if this isn’t quite your ideal career, have a look on ApprenticeTips.com for more opportunities, and find the apprenticeship that’s right for you.

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Train Driver Apprenticeship [Level 3]

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Image of a Train Tunnel

Everything You Need to Know About the Train Driver Apprenticeship [Level 3]

The train driver apprenticeship [Level 3] is a terrific way to get started out in the railway sector. It will allow you to get involved in various different areas of work in the rail industry. As many of the skills are transferable, this apprenticeship could lead to jobs in senior management. If this interests you, carry on reading for more information.

Role Overview

Train drivers are responsible for driving trains across a variety of routes in a safe, timely, and economical manner while adhering to all relevant rail regulations and policies. They are also responsible for all passengers, staff and goods on the train. A train driver could work in a number of rail environments: high speed, passenger, freight, underground, metro, suburban and many more.

Furthermore, they should also be able to maintain a high level of concentration and make split-second, complicated decisions under both normal and challenging circumstances, such as inclement weather, infrastructure breakdowns, and emergency situations.

This role requires strong communication skills as you’ll be effectively communicating with stakeholders. You may also have to supervise others – this is done in order to enable compliance with regulations through safe and effective rail operation.

In addition, train drivers don’t have a set work hours. They should be flexible and adaptable as they could be required to work for extended periods of time alone, with shifts that include weekends, evenings and nights. For example, on freight or engineering trains, train drivers usually tend to be rostered more night shifts. On long-distance routes, there may be a need for overnight stays.

Train driver on railway line

Here are some key responsibilities you will have as a train driver:

  • communicating with: the signaller, crossing attendant, operations control, other rail industry personnel or the British Transport and the civilian police
  • ensuring the train is functioning well to enter into service
  • driving safely and in a timely manner
  • staying up to date with route features
  • remaining calm due to changing conditions
  • following correct protocol consistently throughout the duration of the journey
  • Dealing with customer enquiries promptly, politely and in the correct manner

Duration & Qualifications

This apprenticeship typically lasts between 12-18 months.

Apprentices need Level 2 English, Maths and ICT qualifications for this apprenticeship. Those without the qualifications need to achieve this prior to taking the end-point assessment.

Entry Requirements

  • Employers must meet minimum requirements set by the Train Driving Licences and Certificates Regulations 2010
  • Candidates must meet medical standards of physical health set out within the above regulations
  • Candidates must be at least 18 years old for this apprenticeship

Train Driver Apprenticeship Competencies

The Level 3 Train Driver Apprenticeship consists of specific competencies that you will need to meet in order to pass the apprenticeship. I have outlined a few of these below:

Safety

A good understanding of relevant health and safety legislation, statutory operating regulations within own role and organisation and how to monitor it.

You will be able to continuously monitor area of responsibility to ensure compliance with rail legislation and organisational procedures. You will also have an overall responsibility of passengers, staff and goods to enable compliance with regulations through safe and effective rail operation.

Communication

Knowledge and understanding of procedures and methods, to ensure the transfer of information to different stakeholders e.g., using report forms, phonetic alphabet, codes and numbering.

You will be able to effectively carry out verbal communications, face to face and by using written methods and procedures e.g., using the PA system or train radio.

Security

Requirements and process for ensuring rail safety and security on the line, trains, stations and at depots. E.g. evacuation points.

You will be able to constantly maintain a secure environment and respond to security issues. In the event of a security breach, you will take appropriate action and review the effectiveness of methods and actions taken. For example, safe systems of work, closing gates and doors when entering secured premises, securing cab doors when leaving trains on main lines and stations.

Health and Wellbeing

Understand the risk of ill health and the impact of wellbeing on the safety of an individual, others at work and the public. Understanding strategies for fatigue management. For example, sleep quality and environment, healthy lifestyle, diet, time and stress management.

You will be able to manage your own fitness and lifestyle to ensure work is carried out competently.

high speed railway train in black and white.

Career Progression

Upon successfully completing this apprenticeship, you can progress to a number of different roles. This includes train driver instructor, train driver manager, depot driver team leader, depot delivery co-ordinator.

To conclude, that’s everything you need to know about the Level 3 Train Driver Apprenticeship. If this apprenticeship sounds like it’s for you, take a look at our open roles or continue browsing our website to see what else might interest you.

Express Delivery Operative Apprenticeship – Level 2

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A deliverer using a trolley for heavy orders

So now that you’ve finally made the decision of pursuing an apprenticeship you’d like to know more about what’s on offer. If you’re interested in a career in delivery then the Express Delivery Operative Apprenticeship may be the answer. Beginning with a level 2 apprenticeship where you can work your way up in the industry. Throughout the apprenticeship you will gain extensive knowledge skills and professional behaviours. 

The Role 

In this day and age we are no strangers to online shopping and we all love the choice of being able to have our items the same day or even the next. A lot of work happens behind the scenes to make this happen, which is what this apprenticeship is about. An express delivery operative has the opportunity to use world class equipment and software which ensure deliveries are easily tracked and delivered in time. However, this also includes working on foot, trolleys, lorries or motorbikes when making deliveries from the warehouse to the customers doorstep. Most importantly gain a high level of customer service skills as they will be interacting with customers. A delivery service can support customer retention when done properly. Each operative is an important link in the delivery chain and in making our economy run smoothly. 

Entry Requirements and Qualifications 

The selection criteria is set by employers so we can’t guarantee that all entry requirements are the same. However there are qualifications you need to have or complete by the time your apprenticeship ends. These qualifications are at least level 2 in English and Maths by the time of their end point assessment. If you already have these qualifications or higher then you will not need to take these during your apprenticeship. 

Duration 

Different apprenticeships have different durations but for this level 2 apprenticeship duration is 12 months as long as the above qualifications are achieved. Please be aware that this duration does not include your End Point Assessment (EPA) period.

Overview 

During your apprenticeship there are various skills you will learn, these will include how to deliver goods to customers in a safe way that ensures safety of the goods and yourself while loading and unloading. To be able plan and track yourself against a schedule and use the correct equipment when needed. You must also learn how to improve your customer service skills and meet your customers expectations during delivery. When using a vehicle you must remember to drive safely in accordance with the law and protect those around you. 

You will acquire a significant amount of knowledge during your apprenticeship such as geography from around the country so that you are able to plan and check your routes. Another area will be reading maps and postcodes to locate your delivery addresses. This will aid you in your customer service skills for being on time and efficiency. You will learn how different types of goods should be kept while you deliver. For example perishable goods that may need to be kept at a certain temperature so they do not spoil. 

Most importantly you will learn how to behave in a professional setting as you will be acting as an ambassador for the company you are working for. Another skill will be how to interact and build a relationship with your colleagues to ensure you have a safe and nurturing environment to learn and grow. Learning how to be proactive during your work hours and grow on your confidence and skills to make sure you are doing the best possible job you can.

Delivery workers in a warehouse wearing hi vis

Progression

If you are already thinking about what comes after your level 2 apprenticeship. After your apprenticeship you will have opportunities to progress to more senior roles. This can include becoming a team leader and you could even be supporting newcomer apprentices yourself, guiding them in their new career. 

Another route you may take is to even offer your services as a self-employer courier and build your own business with the skills you have learnt. 

If you would like to progress with this apprenticeship then please get in touch with us, and we can help guide you on your new path. 

Transport Planning Technician Apprenticeship

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A Quick Guide to Becoming a Transport Planning Technician

Transport and Logistics. Transport Planning Technician Level 3 Apprenticeship.
Level 3 Transport Planning Technician Apprentice 

Are you a creative thinker who enjoys problem solving? Do you want to safeguard the environment while also promoting economic growth? If so, a job as a Transport Planning Technician is suited to YOU! 

What does a transport planning technician do? 

A transport planning technician assists professional transport planners throughout the transportation business by resolving issues such as traffic jams and finding new, sustainable solutions to every transportation need. 

Transport planning technicians are an important component of the transportation business because they assist economic growth, protect the environment, and promote social cohesion by taking security, safety, and inclusion into account. 

Three Transport Planning Technicians
Level 3 Transport Planning Technician Apprenticeship Guide 

What qualifications do you need before starting an apprenticeship? 

The entry criteria will vary depending on the business. However, most companies will be searching for applicants with IT abilities, unique thinking, and a desire to assist in the development of creative solutions. 

Apprentice candidates should have at least 5 GCSEs at Grades A*-C / 9-4, including Maths, English, and Science, or their equivalent. 

Apprentices who do not have level 2 English and maths will need to work towards this level before taking their End-Point Assessment. For persons whose first language is BSL, a British Sign Language (BSL) qualification offers an alternative to an English qualification. 

What are a Transport Planning Technician apprentice’s responsibilities?

The majority of an apprentice’s time as a transport planning technician will be spent working in an office setting. However, these 10 key responsibilities outline the wider range of work an apprentice in this transport industry would undertake: 

  1. Carrying out data collection, analysis and evaluation.
  2. Ensure safe systems of work are applied and hazards and risks are identified.
  3. Communicate effectively with a range of audiences, such as internal and external stakeholders.
  4. Undertake planning for transport and travel in a way that influences travel behaviours and improves sustainability, safety, security, and inclusion. 
  5. Contribute to the modelling of transport and traffic systems.
  6. Collect, interpret, and analyse inter-related and dynamic technical information.
  7. Participate in community, stakeholder engagement, or public consultations. 
  8. Use the quality management and assurance systems available to proactively plan and manage tasks.
  9. Undertake transport planning with consideration for, and application of, ethical principles. 
  10. Carrying out continuing professional development in line with professional codes of conduct and/or industry specifications and obligations. 

To find out more about the duties involved visit, here.

What does an apprenticeship involve? 

Your Level 3 Transport Planning Technician apprenticeship will include a range of knowledge modules designed to prepare you for success in your career. Your tutor will teach you the modules that will help you in the workplace. 

During your apprenticeship, you will learn the following knowledge and skills: 

  • The policy, legal and regulatory context within which transport planners work 
  • The collection and analysis of data, including new data obtained through transport and traffic fieldwork 
  • Transport and traffic models, forecasting and the principal analytical methods and software packages in general use 
  • The assessment of transport and traffic policies, plans and projects 

These are just a few of the skills you will learn throughout your training.

Is a transport planning technician a good career path?  

Once you have completed your level 3 apprenticeship, there are endless options for you to explore to excel in your career. Apprentice Now offers a Level 6 Transport Planner Degree which would allow you to develop your career further.

If this sounds like a career for you and you want to earn while you can, please email us at [email protected].  

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How to Be a Supply Chain Operative

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What is a Supply Chain Warehouse Operative?

A Supply Chain Warehouse Operative is someone who leads the moving, packaging and stock-taking of items in a warehouse environment. No two days are the same, you could do anything from: packing orders, taking deliveries, using a range of equipment (e.g., fork lift trucks) and maintaining stock records.

There are lots of exciting jobs out there and the Level 2 Supply Chain Warehouse Operative role can take you down the Transport and Logistics career path. With plenty of London apprenticeships, keep reading to see how you could become a Warehouse Operative!

Level 2 Supply Chain Warehouse Operative Apprenticeship

Level 2 Supply Chain Warehouse Operative apprenticeship. Duration 12 months. Transport and logistics route. £3000 funding. Level 2 maths and English qualification needed. Apprentice now training provider.

About You

You will love communicating with a variety of people and customers. You’re passionate about finding solutions and exceeding customer expectations – by providing first class service, you help businesses retain customers! You thrive under pressure and will become a master of Management Systems in no time. You’ll need to be flexible with work patterns because you might need to work nights, evenings or weekends.

5 key things you’ll do:

  1. Show integrity, positivity and motivation with every task. You’ll be an advocate for the business.

  2. Take ownership for your own performance and training, keen to become an industry expert and improve processes.

  3. Contribute towards environmental sustainability on the job.

  4. Adapt to new technology, systems and equipment – keep an eye out for developments that could help the business.

  5. Be a team player and willing to help others.

7 Ways to Stand Out

To thrive in this apprenticeship, it’s all about passion and potential. You’ll learn a lot on the job, but here are some of the topics that could make you stand out from the crowd:

  1. Be aware of basic IT and relevant technology or systems, this could include warehousing management, data capture, radio and barcoding systems. Stay up to date with developing IT that ensures the safe and efficient processing of goods.

  2. Understand relevant regulations and legislation that governs the supply chain industry, your subsectors and your role. It’s important to know and avoid the consequences of breaking legal guidelines – they are there to bring out the best in you and keep you safe.

  3. Think about the impact of warehouse operations on your health. Operations is a physically demanding job, so you’ll need to keep fit and be conscious of your physical capabilities.

  4. Businesses are stepping up their corporate social responsibility. Stand out by contributing ideas that could help minimise the negative impact your work (and the wider industry) has on the environment. Some areas to think about include maintaining a high level of housekeeping, managing waste effectively and packing materials. The goal is to reduce waste and cost!

  5. Operate and handle equipment safely. You’ll be working with lots of different machinery and tools that need to be used effectively and maintained. These could include forklift trucks, high street trucks, powered pallet trucks or man up trucks. This role requires precision as you’ll be finding the best ways to move vehicles in restricted spaces and position equipment.

  6. Teamwork makes the dream work. You need to be able to work individually and as part of a team to safely handle objects. Together, you’ll need to maintain a high level of housekeeping and manage waste effectively. You’ll use your initiative to find instructions or guidance when needed and check for missing or damaged items. You’ll need to look out for each other’s safety, security and health.

  7. Companies are looking for advocates. You’ll be an asset to the company if you promote their values. You’ll be good at communicating effectively with customers and colleagues, to anticipate and meet their needs.

Conclusion

Transport and Logistics is an exciting career path and becoming a Warehouse Operative could just be the beginning. If you’d like to find out more about this or other apprenticeships, subscribe to our newsletter below!

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Rail Infrastructure Operator – Level 2 Apprenticeship

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Train on Railway Line

If you are interested in how the Rail Transport industry operates by wanting to know how rail lines are controlled or the measurements taken to ensure safety or learn about electrical control systems, then a Rail Infrastructure Operative Apprenticeship might be for you!

What does a Rail Infrastructure Operative do?

So you might find yourself asking “What does a Rail Infrastructure Operative do?”, simply the role involves duties such as ensuring safety operations are maintained and assisting with the electrical control systems within the Rail Transport network. Another responsibility a Rail Infrastructure Operative has is to report incidents on the railway to the relevant parties which may require working with emergency services departments. The Rail Transport network includes railways, underground railways, metro railways and tram railways.

The role may also include working with a range of different people from departments across the Rail Network, including; train drivers, maintenance staff and power suppliers.

Some of the other typical job titles which are similar to a Rail Infrastructure Operative in the industry are a Signalling Operator, Traffic Manager, Electrical Control Operator, Route Controller, Incident Controller, Service Controller or a Service and Infrastructure Manager.

What are the entry requirements for a Rail Infrastructure Operative Apprenticeship?

The entry requirements for a Level 2 Rail Infrastructure Operative Apprenticeship are for candidates to have achieved at least Level 1 Functional Skills in Maths and English. It also requires for candidates to have taken the test for Level 2 in Functional Skills Maths and English.

It is important to remember that different employers may have their own additional requirements for the apprenticeship. These could be having previous GCSE qualifications or some relevant experience or a genuine interest in the industry.

London Kings Cross Train Station Interior

What does the structure of a Rail Infrastructure Operative Apprenticeship look like?

The length of a Rail Infrastructure Operative Apprenticeship can last between 12 to 18 months, where the minimum length of time which needs to be completed is 12 months.

Within the first 12 months, assessments will be carried out through different methods such as observations or discussions supported by portfolio of work.

This will then be followed by an End Point Assessment which starts with a formal review between parties involved in the apprenticeship who will be the apprentice, the employer and the training provider, which is to ensure the apprentice qualifies and is ready for the end point assessment. The End Point Assessment will be carried out by an independent End-Point Assessment Organisation (EPAO) and not the training provider.

What would be the next steps after I completed my apprenticeship?

Once the apprenticeship has been completed there are a few options which could be considered. An option could be to progress on to a Level 3 in the same or similar field such as Rail Engineering.

Also, a job role could be offered at the end of the apprenticeship by the employer or the candidate could use the experience they have gained to apply for jobs at a company they might be interested in.

What are the benefits to completing an apprenticeship?

An apprenticeship is an opportunity for anyone who is interested in starting a different career path, whether you are new to work and are wanting to get your first job, unsure about starting university or even if you are interested in changing careers, then apprenticeships might be suitable for you.

The benefits of a UK apprenticeship is that it not only lets you achieve a nationally recognised qualification it also has the “earn while you learn” status. An apprentice gets a paid just like other employees at a business but they also have the benefit of learning and developing their skills as well as their knowledge a specific sector. The apprentice is also gaining at least a year’s experience in a role which can help them with career progression if they are interested in applying for a particular job role.

If you are interested in a Rail Infrastructure Operative Apprenticeship, then please contact our team today! Or if you want to learn about other apprenticeships then please visit our blog.

Port Marine Operations Officer – Level 4 Apprenticeship

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If you have an interest in ships, ports and the marine environment, then an apprenticeship as a Port Marine Operations Officer could be the perfect opportunity for you!

Continue reading to find out about what skills and experience you could gain if you took part in this Level 4 apprenticeship.

What does a Port Marine Operations Officer apprenticeship involve?

There are over 100 ports situated across the United Kingdom which employ around 118,000 people covering a range of different roles including; bulk cargo ports, marinas, passenger terminals and leisure.

A port marine operations team handles the safe travel of vessels in and out of ports. This team’s job is to ensure that this process is carried out safely and efficiently.

Typical activities that can occur in a Port Marine Operations team are:

  • Berthing of vessels
  • Port control and marine services
  • Operation of harbours and marinas
  • Conservancy
  • Environmental protection
  • Statutory compliance
  • Operation of harbour marine craft

This occupation may involve working in a variety of environments as well as shift work.

A Level 4 apprenticeship as a Port Operations Officer is designed to give apprentices the opportunity to have hands-on learning working for a port operator. Apprentices will learn as they earn whilst they cover a range of tasks and activities. Apprentices will be given support throughout their learning journey and will gain industry approved qualifications upon the completion of their training.

Completing an apprenticeship will give learners life long skills and qualifications that will give them confidence as they enter the wider world of work.

Southampton port with boat in the foreground

What skills will an apprentice learn?

A Port Marine Operations Officer apprentice will learn a wealth of skills that include:

  • Ability to manoeuvre, navigate and crew a range of marine craft
  • Carry out marine craft operations like basic towage, personnel transfer and recovery, hydrographic surveying, etc.
  • Ability to safely use emergency equipment
  • Carrying out basic first aid work
  • Safely mooring and unmooring vessels in all shapes and sizes
  • Handling loads manually and mechanically
  • Sea survival skills
  • Engaging with colleagues and other relevant stakeholders across all activities to ensure a situation is successfully delivered
  • Ability to use communications equipment such as a VHF radio
  • Operating navigational systems such as satellite systems, radar, compasses and global navigation
  • Can contribute to the protection of the marine environment
Sunny UK port full of boats

What knowledge will an apprentice gain?

The apprentice will also develop an understanding in the following areas:

  • Vessel and shore-based electronic navigation systems
  • Port-specific Information Technology systems
  • Hydrographic survey
  • Conservancy
  • Dredging
  • Routine maintenance of equipment and marine craft
  • Management of vessel operations within harbours
  • Marine meteorology
  • Marine navigation
  • Marine pilotage
  • Manoeuvring systems such as propellers, thrusters, rudder, anchors, etc.
  • Maritime emergency response
  • Maritime law
  • Port control operations and vessel traffic services
  • Marine infrastructure such as jetties, quays, marinas
  • Operations such as cargo, fishing, leisure, passenger, roll-on/roll-off
  • Health, safety and security legislation
  • International Ship and Port Facility Security Codes

What jobs could follow this apprenticeship?

Completing an apprenticeship as a Port Marine Operations Officer could lead to more senior roles within the port sector. Jobs that could follow include; Vessel Traffic Services, Port Management, Dock Masters, Berthing Masters, Assistant Harbour Master and Hydrographer.

How long is the apprenticeship?

Typically an apprenticeship in this area will require training that lasts at least 24 – 30 months.

What qualifications do I need?

Apprentices must have achieved at least a Level 2 in English and Maths prior to applying for this apprenticeship.

Requirements will vary between different employers, but because of the physical demands of the role, potential apprentices will require a certain level of physical health.

Apprenticeship Level: Level 4

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Marina and Boatyard Operative Apprenticeship

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Marine Pilot

Have you ever thought about working near the water? Perhaps the question “are there any boatyard jobs near me?” has entered your mind at some point. If so, then this apprenticeship as a marina and boatyard operative will be perfect for you.

What will a role by the boatyard involve?

Marinas and boatyards are used to support the yachting and boating sectors. The operatives who work within them deliver a number of operations with the goal of keeping equipment and boats ready to be used at all times. The revenue generated from marinas and associated activities totals roughly £222 million per year!

This job will have you delivering on a variety of operations and services such as vessel handling and storage, whilst complying with relevant legislation, regulations, codes of practice and other guidelines. You’ll need to utilise strong team working skills to complete larger tasks such as boat lifting, and work on your own initiative. You’ll be completing regular maintenance and checks around the marina/boatyard. You will also be expected to also work outside of typical work hours to get the job done.

What do I need to succeed?

There are a number of skills you will need to thrive in this work environment, including:

  • Safety and environmental awareness – Embracing a safety culture and acting in a way that keeps your colleagues and property from coming to any harm, while promoting a sustainable working culture and following guidelines.
  • Great customer service –  You should look to provide outstanding service to all customers.
  • Independent working and logical decision making – You should take full responsibility for your own work as well as situations where necessary while giving clear instructions to your colleagues.
  • Personal commitment and a strong work ethic – You should always be looking to achieve the best results possible and ensure all your work is up to the highest standard of quality.
  • Strong team-working skills – You should be able to communicate with your colleagues effectively and help to keep everyone motivated/driven.
  • Great time management – You must be able to complete work on a schedule and use your own time effectively.

Above all, a hunger to learn and gain new skills will make you a great candidate. Always be eager to develop your knowledge and skills. If you think these traits apply to you and you have at least 2 GCSEs, consider looking into the role!

Image of a sunlit boatyard that you could be working on.

What will I learn during my apprenticeship?

During your apprenticeship, you will develop your specialist knowledge. This includes core knowledge such as the regulations that you will need to follow, the hazards you will encounter and all the procedures for preparing vessels for cleaning and maintenance. In addition to the job-centric knowledge that you will learn, you will also come to be able to discuss the industry as a whole and how marinas and boatyards support tourism, production and employment.

In addition to these skills, you will be required to take one out of four extra options, which are Fuel & Pump out, Rigging, Chandlery & Retail or Lock and Bridge Operation. Once you have reached the end of your apprenticeship you will take an end point assessment. This will happen roughly 18 to 24 months after you begin depending on your experience at entry.

Conclusion

This apprenticeship is a great opportunity for those that enjoy more physical tasks working around the boatyard environment and are eager to start a career that allows them to work as a team to accomplish a common goal. Not only will you be gaining valuable hard and soft skills that you will carry with you for the rest of your life, but you’ll also meet some great people.

If this is the type of apprenticeship for you, then take a look at some more physically oriented roles below ⬇️

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The Ultimate Guide to Becoming a Marine Pilot

by
Marine Pilot

Job Description of a Marine Pilot

The maritime industry has launched a new set of apprenticeships with roles on ships and in ports. Masters of ships arriving in ports often need assistance to make sure they can enter and exit the port safely. This assistance is provided by marine pilots who are usually required to undertake the following:

  • Physical tasks – Marine Pilots are required to board moving vessels from small high powered launches, often in rough seas. This involves climbing high ladders to access vessel decks.
  • Pilotage planning – before boarding a vessel, the Marine Pilot is required to plan the course of the vessel taking into account tides, weather, size, weight and operational characteristics of the vessel, and if there is a need for tugs.
  • Piloting the vessel – the Marine Pilot will have responsibility for navigating the vessel safely in and out of the harbour. They need to work very closely with the captain and other members of the crew in order to achieve this. They also need to be able to use the ship’s navigational and communications equipment, liaising with both other vessels and the port control centre.

How does the Marine Pilot Apprenticeship work?

You will learn key knowledge from experienced people working in the business, by studying the course modules via distance learning. This knowledge and understanding will be tested by the module student assignments and the final exam (for those wishing to gain the Full Diploma). The course covers key areas that you must understand if you wish to work as a Marine Pilot. Those who have taken the time to study this subject will have shown motivation and forward thinking. This is very appealing to potential employers.

What personality traits would stand you in good stead for these roles?

The requirement to board vessels at sea means that a Marine Pilot needs to be reasonably fit, comfortable working on the water and at height. There may also be some on-call requirement, as well as shift or weekend work. Team work is also a big part of all of this role. Apprentices should be good team players but also self-reliant. They should be assertive, but able to follow instructions.

How will this Apprenticeship help me find a job as a Marine Pilot?

We cannot guarantee that you will find work as a Marine Pilot. But, taking this course will raise your profile on the job market. Key knowledge and understanding, plus the ability to learn, are important factors that employers look for. By taking and passing this course, you will have demonstrated and proven your ability for critical thinking within the framework of a course. For instance, covering all the key aspects of marine pilotage.

The course is taught by working experts with a huge amount of experience and working knowledge. The focus of this course is understanding what you need to know when performing the task of a Marine Pilot. As such, it is invaluable for those wishing to start a career, or highly experienced Marine Pilots looking to update their knowledge and gain a formal qualification.

Will I become a qualified Pilot upon successful completion?

No. You will still need to meet the requirements of individual employers in terms of their operating and training standards. But, as explained, this course will certainly help.

Entry Requirements + Information about Apprenticeships

Whilst requirements differ per applicant per employer, typically it is required for candidates to have Level 2 English and Maths. If they do not have these qualifications they will need to achieve this level prior to taking their end point assessment.

The duration of this course is typically 3 years long and is a level 5 apprenticeship.

Conclusion

This apprenticeship will be perfect for you if you have an interest in becoming a marine pilot. The course offers you to further your skill set and gives you the foundation to have a career in this field.

If this is of interest to you, find out more about applications here!