Blacksmith Apprenticeship (Appledore)
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Navantia UK is a new force in British industry, supporting the UK’s defence, energy and maritime ambitions. We’re doing this by creating state-of-the-art sovereign defence capabilities, investing in the UK to modernise industrial facilities, and bolstering the nation's energy security. Established in 2022, Navantia UK is a subsidiary of Navantia SA, a Spanish state-owned company with over 300 years of naval shipbuilding history. In January 2025, Navantia UK completed the acquisition of Harland & Wolff and its four historic facilities in Belfast, Appledore, Methil, and Arnish. By combining Harland & Wolff’s proud heritage and facilities with Navantia’s global expertise, Navantia UK is well-positioned to strengthen Britain’s defence, maritime and energy industrial capabilities, supporting jobs and economic growth across the UK.
The 3-year apprenticeship programme will be a full Level 3 apprenticeship consisting of a EAL level 2 award in Engineering Operative technical certificate (embedded during year 1), followed by a 2-year EAL Level 3 Diploma in Advanced Manufacturing Engineering (year 2 & 3), alongside these college qualifications there will also be a EAL Level 3 Diploma in Maritime Defence (Portfolio). As an Apprentice you will attend college and receive both practical and theoretical training part of your working week. The remainder of your week will be spent in the workplace.
You are required to attend college where you will undertake practical work and theory-based learning.
- Yard tour date Friday 27th March approx. 1hr long
- Interview & Assessment dates to be between 6th April - 17th April - Approx. 3hrs
Start dates will be around August/September 2026.
Reporting to: The Apprenticeship Supervisor and Manager
Job purpose: The Apprentice Blacksmith will develop the skills required to shape, form, and fabricate metal components used across engineering and fabrication projects. Working under experienced tradespeople, the apprentice will learn traditional and modern blacksmithing techniques, gaining hands‑on experience while working towards a recognised qualification.
Job Duties
Learning & Skills Development
- Receive training in forming, bending, heating, and shaping a variety of metals.
- Learn to safely operate blacksmithing tools and machinery such as rollers, presses, forges, and basic welding equipment.
Workshop & Fabrication Support
- Assist qualified blacksmiths and fabricators in producing metal components such as brackets, fittings, and structural parts.
- Prepare and organise tools, materials, and equipment for daily tasks.
- Support repair and refurbishment of metal components under supervision.
Safety & Compliance
- Follow all health and safety procedures, including correct use of PPE and safe operation of tools.
- Take part in toolbox talks, site inductions, and required training modules.
- Maintain a clean, safe, and well‑organised work environment.
Teamwork & Professional Development
- Work closely with blacksmiths, fabricators, welders, and engineering teams.
- Attend all apprenticeship training, college days, and assessments.
- Keep an up‑to‑date training log of skills learned and competencies achieved.
Essential
- Hold a minimum of a grade (C)4/5 in GCSE Math’s and English or a willingness to work towards
Key Interpersonal/Behavioural Skills
- Ability to establish an appropriate course of action for self and/or others to accomplish a goal
- Effectiveness in identifying possible problems for upward reporting/investigation
- Ability to express ideas or facts in a clear manner
- Professional and pro-active work ethic
On Offer
- Competitive hourly rate
We are an Opening Doors employer, committed to equal opportunity and an inclusive workplace. Our approach, shaped by our values of service, trust, excellence, agility, dedication, and you, we focus on removing barriers and recognising potential. We are committed to fairness at every stage, including providing reasonable adjustments and actively working to eliminate discrimination.
We believe talent is everywhere, and by widening access to opportunity and welcoming diverse experiences, we aim to create a workplace where every person feels valued and has an equal chance.
If you experience difficulties or are unable to apply for a role on-line please contact us at people.skills@harland-wolff.com and one of the team will be in contact to help you.