Programme title: Non-Destructive Testing Apprenticeship
Level: SCQF Level 7
Salary: £16, rising annually to c.£38, post apprenticeship
Location: HM Naval Base Clyde, Scotland
Application closing date: 12th March
Programme start date: August
Ready to start a high-impact technical career? Our 4-year Non-Destructive Testing (NDT) Apprenticeship provides a fantastic opportunity to work on submarines while earning engineering qualifications.
About the programme
As an NDT Apprentice based at HM Naval Base Clyde, you'll be vital to our Fleet Time Support programme, ensuring the Royal Navy’s Vanguard and Astute-Class nuclear submarines are ready for their important missions.
You’ll be responsible for conducting surveys to ensure work has been completed to the correct standards before submarine deployments.
Your day-to-day will be far from ordinary:
1. Carrying out detailed surveys and upholding rigorous standards
2. Collating and analysing survey reports
3. Working with key stakeholders to assure compliance with specific regulations and codes
4. Producing crucial technical reports
5. Assisting with work package sequencing
6. Supporting the management team to maintain and improve safety.
You’ll also be a key member of the Radiography Team at HMNB Clyde, working as a trainee radiographer and developing your skills in this specialist field.
Your education/training
As part of your apprenticeship, you will receive training both on-site and at West College Scotland. Your formal qualifications will be achieved progressively over the course of the programme, as outlined below:
7. Year 1: Full-time at West College Scotland SVQ Level 2 (SCQF Level 5) in Performing Engineering Operations NC Engineering Systems – Year 1
8. Year 2: 3 days per week on site at HMNB Clyde and 1 day per week at West College Scotland SVQ Diploma in Technical Services in Engineering (SCQF Level 7) NC Engineering Systems – Year 2
9. Years 3–4: 3 days per week on site at HMNB Clyde (if progressing to HNC) and 1 day per week at West College Scotland SVQ Diploma in Technical Services in Engineering (SCQF Level 7) HNC Engineering Systems
Future prospects
Through a combination of classroom learning and onsite training you’ll develop well-rounded engineering competencies and behaviours, preparing you for life in industry. At the end of your programme, you'll be a well-rounded professional ready to take on the role of Nuclear Procedures and Standards Inspector Trainee at Babcock.
What you’ll need
10. National Level 5 qualifications (or equivalent) in Mathematics, English, and a Science or technical subject, with grades A–C.
11. Two additional qualifications at National Level 4 or 5 (or above), with grades A–C.
12. Many of our apprenticeship programmes are subject to Security Clearance and Trade Control restrictions which mean that your place of birth, nationality, citizenship, or residency you hold or have held may impact which programmes you are eligible for. For this programme, you must be able to achieve Baseline Personnel Security Standard (BPSS) and Security Check (SC) clearance. Further details are available at United Kingdom Security Vetting: clearance levels – GOV.UK (
What you’ll get
We’ll provide you with a supportive and engaging environment where you can grow your career.
In addition, you’ll benefit from:
13. Fully funded qualification
14. Personal development training and opportunities
15. Minimum 28 days holiday allowance including bank holidays
16. Competitive pension scheme
17. Employee share scheme
18. Flexible benefits including cycle to work scheme and employee shopping savings portal
You’ll also have the chance to get involved in our STEM outreach activities and volunteering opportunities, which our apprentices find incredibly rewarding.