Welding Apprentice- Rosyth

Programme title:

Engineering Trades Apprenticeship – Welders and Fabricators

Level:

SCQF Level 7

Salary:

• Year 1: £15,974
• Year 2: £22,857
• Year 3: £25,728
• Year 4: £29,274
• Post apprenticeship: £39,129

Location:

Rosyth, Scotland

Application closing date:

12th March 2026

Programme start date:

August 2026

Role ID:

67850

Overview

Ready to learn a skilled trade? This 4‑year Engineering Trades Apprenticeship lets you develop specialist skills in fabricating and welding while gaining hands‑on experience maintaining the Royal Navy’s fleet.

About the Programme

You will work on the build, maintenance, and refit of UK Royal Navy and international vessels, including the Type 31 Frigate Programme and UK Submarine Dismantling Programme. Projects include new builds, upgrades to existing vessels, and other commercial engineering ventures. You will specialise in a trade route – fabricator or welder – based on your preference during recruitment.

Fabricator

Learn to manufacture a wide range of components and construct both minor and major ship structures. You will fabricate metal structures, work with structural and sheet metal, and use cutting, bending, and assembling processes. On‑the‑job training includes handheld tools, CNC cutters, manual or powered hamming tools, press brakes, welding, bonding with adhesives, riveting, fastening, bending seams, and other fabrication techniques.

Welder

Receive training in various welding processes and techniques, gaining a comprehensive understanding of welding and specialized tools. Your work will range from factory‑based manufacturing to major structural welding on Royal Navy vessels. No two days are the same, and you will play a vital role in supporting the Royal Navy’s operations.

Key Skills Gained

• Health and safety
• Planning and documentation
• Engineering mathematical and scientific principles
• Methods and techniques
• Structure, properties and characteristics of materials
• Diagnostic methods to overcome problems
• Interpreting engineering drawings and data
• Adhering to and refining processes and procedures

Soft skills developed include clear communication, effective teamwork, problem‑solving, attention to detail, and a commitment to ongoing personal development and reflective learning.

Your Education/Training

This apprenticeship combines college‑based learning with on‑the‑job experience. Upon successful completion you will earn the EAL SVQ Level 3 and the SDS Level 3 Modern Apprenticeship Certificate in Fabrication and Welding Engineering, aligned to SCQF Level 7.

Year 1: Predominantly college‑based at Forth Valley College in Falkirk, focusing on the National Certificate in Fabrication and Welding and Performance Engineering Operations Level 2.

Year 2‑4: Full‑time training at Rosyth Dockyard with scheduled college attendance for higher learning. You may apply for a Higher National Certificate (HNC), attending college one day per week across years 3 and 4.

Future Prospects

After completing the programme, you will qualify as an Engineering Technician specialising in your chosen field (fabricating or welding). You can expect a competitive salary of £39,129 and opportunities to pursue higher‑level qualifications within Babcock.

Requirements

• A minimum of 4 National 5s at grade C or above, including Maths, English, and a Science or Technical subject.
• A genuine interest in your chosen trade, with a willingness to learn, ask questions, and collaborate.
• The ability to follow instructions and plan work with safety as a top priority.
• A team player who demonstrates respect and professionalism toward colleagues, customers, and supervisors.
• Eligibility for security clearance: you must be able to achieve BPSS and SC clearance.

Benefits

• Fully funded qualification.
• Personal development training and opportunities.
• Minimum 28 days holiday allowance including bank holidays.
• Competitive pension scheme.
• Employee share scheme.
• Flexible benefits: cycle‑to‑work scheme and employee shopping savings portal.

Career Development

You will be automatically enrolled in the Apprentice Development Programme, featuring digital and face‑to‑face sessions led by wellbeing, performance experts and external partners.

Additional opportunities include STEM outreach activities and volunteering.

Application Process and Closing Dates

Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis and may close early if demand is high. Submit your application and complete any required online assessments as soon as possible to maximise your chances.