Ready to learn a skilled trade? On our 4-year Engineering Trades Apprenticeship, youâll\u202Fdevelop specialist skills in fabricating and welding and gain hands-on experience maintaining the Royal Navy's fleet.\u202F \n\nAbout the programme \n\nThis is no ordinary apprenticeship. Our engineering technicians are at the forefront of building and maintaining the Royal Navyâs fleet. \n\nAs part of our busy team, you'll contribute to the build, maintenance, and refit of UK Royal Navy and international naval vessels, including the Type 31 Frigate Programme and UK Submarine Dismantling Programme. \n\nYou will have the opportunity to work on a variety of projects such as new builds and upgrades to existing vessels, along with other commercial engineering projects.\u202F\u202F \n\nThis varied and exciting programme covers trades including fabricating and welding. You'll be assigned one of these trade routes to specialise in. \n\nFind out more about each of the trades below. Youâll be asked to indicate your preference during the recruitment process. \n\nFabricator \n\nYou'll learn how to manufacture a wide range of components and construct both minor and major ship structures. Youâll fabricate metal structures, work with structural and sheet metal, and use cutting, bending, and assembling processes. On the job, you will learn how to operate handheld tools and CNC cutters, as well as manual or powered hamming tools and press brakes. Additionally, youâll gain experience in welding, binding with adhesives, riveting, fastening, bending seams, and other fabrication tools and techniques. \n\nWelder \n\nYou'll be trained in various welding processes and techniques while developing a comprehensive understanding of welding, including the operation of specialist welding tools and equipment. Your work will range from factory-based manufacturing to major structural welding on Royal Navy vessels. With such varied tasks, no two days will be the same, and you'll play a vital role in supporting the Royal Navy's operations. \n\nWhatever route you take, the apprenticeship programme will equip you with valuable knowledge and practical skills in areas such as: \n\nHealth and safety\u202F \n\nPlanning and documentation\u202F \n\nEngineering mathematical and scientific principles\u202F \n\nMethods and techniques\u202F \n\nStructure, properties and characteristics of materials.\u202F \n\nDiagnostic methods to overcome problems\u202F \n\nInterpreting engineering drawings and data\u202F \n\nAdhering to and refining processes and procedures\u202F \n\n \n\nIn addition to technical expertise, the programme also focuses on developing key soft skills, including â but not limited to â clear communication, effective teamwork, problem-solving, attention to detail, and a commitment to ongoing personal development and reflective learning. This structured apprenticeship combines college-based learning with practical, on-the-job experience. Upon successful completion, apprentices will earn the EAL SVQ Level 3 and the SDS Level 3 Modern Apprenticeship Certificate in Fabrication and Welding Engineering, both aligned to SCQF Level 7. \n\nIn your first year, you will be predominantly based at college. Welding and Fabrication Apprentices will attend Forth Valley College in Falkirk, focusing on achieving the National Certificate (NC) in Fabrication and Welding and Performance Engineering Operations Level 2. This foundational year equips you with essential knowledge and technical skills for the workplace. \n\nFrom your second year onwards, you will transition to full-time training at Rosyth Dockyard with a block of attendance at Forth Valley College. This phase is designed to help you apply what youâve learned in a practical setting, providing valuable real-world experience. During this year, apprentices are also invited to apply for a Higher National Certificate (HNC) qualification. If successful, youâll attend college one day per week throughout the third and fourth years of your apprenticeship. \n\nFuture prospects \n\nAfter successfully completing the programme, you will qualify as an Engineering Technician, specialising in your chosen field (fabricating or welding).Qualified technicians perform specialised work across a broad range of processes, procedures, and systems and continuously develop their technical skills and expertise. \n\nYou can expect to earn a competitive salary of £39,129 upon completing the programme. Additionally, there may be opportunities to pursue higher-level qualifications, enabling you to advance your career within Babcock across a variety of roles and functions. \n A minimum of 4 National 5s at grade C or above, including Maths, English, and a Science or Technical subject. \n\nA genuine interest in your chosen trade, along with a willingness to learn, ask questions, and collaborate. \n\nThe ability to follow instructions and plan work with safety as a top priority. \n\nA team player who demonstrates respect and professionalism toward colleagues, customers, and supervisors. \n\nMany 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. Further details are available at United Kingdom Security Vetting: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/united-kingdom-security-vetting-clearance-levels/national-security-vetting-clearance-levels