Boatbuilder
Level 3 · AdvancedEngineering and manufacturing 3.5 yr typical
About this apprenticeship
What it involves
The Boatbuilder apprenticeship covers the construction, repair and fitting-out of wooden, steel, aluminium and GRP (glass-reinforced plastic) vessels for leisure and commercial use. Apprentices develop skills in hull construction, joinery, mechanical installation and marine finishing. It leads to specialist roles in boatbuilding yards, refit companies and marine engineering.
On the job
What you’ll learn
Hull construction methods in wood, GRP, steel and aluminium
Marine joinery and interior fitting-out techniques
Laminating and composite materials processes
Marine systems including plumbing, electrical and deck fittings
Caulking, fairing and antifouling preparation
Reading marine drawings and construction plans
Safe working on vessels including afloat and on cradles
On the job
What you’ll do day to day
Cut and fit structural frames, bulkheads and planking
Laminate and fair GRP hulls and decks
Fit out interiors including cabinetwork and berths
Install marine plumbing, sea-cocks and through-hulls
Prepare and paint or antifoul boat hulls and topsides
Caulk seams and apply sealants and bedding compounds
Carry out repairs to damaged hulls and structures
The deal
How this apprenticeship works
You earn a wage from day one. You are a paid employee, not a student. There are no tuition fees - the training is funded by your employer and the government.
About 20% is “off-the-job” training. Roughly a day a week is spent learning away from your normal duties - at a college, training provider, or online - working towards a recognised qualification.
It ends with an end-point assessment (EPA). Near the end, an independent assessor checks you can do the job to the national standard - through tests, a project, a portfolio or an interview. Pass it and you are fully qualified.
How to get there
What you need to start
Level 3 (Advanced) - roughly A-level level. Employers usually look for some GCSEs (often English & maths around grade 4/C) or a Level 2 apprenticeship first. English & maths can sometimes be finished during training.
What’s next: Can lead to a Level 4/5 (Higher) apprenticeship, or straight into the role.
Entry requirements are set by each employer and can vary - always check the specific vacancy.
Hear from employers
What it’s really like
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