At a Glance
- Tasks: Learn to fabricate, assemble, and repair steel structures in a hands-on marine environment.
- Company: Join Cory, a leading resource management and recycling company with over 125 years of history.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, annual increases, and support for your development throughout the apprenticeship.
- Other info: Flexible travel to various sites and college day release for practical experience.
- Why this job: Be part of exciting projects and contribute to sustainable energy solutions while gaining valuable skills.
- Qualifications: GCSE passes in English Language and Mathematics required; no degrees allowed.
The predicted salary is between 18000 - 25000 £ per year.
About Cory
Cory is one of the UK's leading resource management, recycling and energy recovery companies. We have a proud history of hiring and developing apprentices, which dates back to the roots of our company over 125 years ago. We currently operate our Riverside 1 energy-from-waste facility in Belvedere, south‑east London. Our new Riverside 2 plant is being commissioned and will open later in 2026. Together, the Riverside facilities will become one of the largest energy‑from‑waste operations in Europe. We are also constructing the largest Transfer Station in the UK in Barking, which will supply waste to fuel Riverside 2, opening this year. Other projects in the works include Carbon Capture and our Heat Network projects. It’s a fantastic time to join Cory and you’ll play a key part in our future success.
Apprentice Welder – Ship Repair Yard, Gravesend
This is a 3‑year Level 3 Engineering Fabrication and Welding apprenticeship based at our Ship Repair facility in Gravesend on the River Thames. It is a hands‑on role within a busy, operational marine environment where you’ll learn to fabricate, assemble and repair steel structures used across our fleet of tugs, barges and associated equipment, as well as vessels for external customers. Throughout the apprenticeship you will gain experience across key fabrication and welding activities, including interpreting engineering drawings, preparing and shaping materials, and carrying out welding processes to industry standards. You will also support the day‑to‑day maintenance and repair of vessels and plant equipment, contributing to Cory operations and commercial third‑party work.
The apprenticeship offers a competitive starting salary, which increases each year as your skills develop, alongside regular reviews with your manager to ensure you’re progressing and supported every step of the way. While you will be based at Gravesend for the majority of the time, you will need to be flexible to travel to our Charlton Barge Yard and to other Cory sites. A driving licence is a bonus but not essential.
Apprenticeships are delivered by IPS, a leading apprenticeship provider based in Rochester, Kent. You will attend college on day release, returning to site between college days to build your experience doing real work.
Qualifications and Requirements
You must have (or expect to obtain) GCSE passes at grade 4 or higher in the following subjects:
- English Language
- Mathematics
Applicants holding a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree cannot apply, as apprenticeships are funded by the UK Government and are aimed at teaching new skills.
Welding Apprenticeship in Gravesend employer: Cory
Cory is an exceptional employer, renowned for its commitment to developing talent through apprenticeships that have been a cornerstone of our operations for over 125 years. Working at our Ship Repair facility in Gravesend offers a dynamic and supportive environment where you will gain hands-on experience in welding and fabrication, with opportunities for career progression and regular salary increases as you develop your skills. Join us at this exciting time as we expand our operations and contribute to sustainable resource management in the UK.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Welding Apprenticeship in Gravesend
✨Get Hands-On Experience
If you’re looking to break into the skilled trades, seek out volunteer opportunities or part-time gigs that let you flex your hands-on skills. Local community projects or workshops can give you some valuable experience and show potential employers your commitment and passion for the trade!
✨Join Trade Associations
Diving into local trade associations is a great way to connect with professionals in your field. These organisations often host events, training sessions, and networking opportunities that can put you right in front of hiring companies—who knows, you might even bump into someone from Cory!
✨Leverage Your Connections
Talk to friends, family, and acquaintances about your apprenticeship search. Sometimes, the best gigs come from word-of-mouth referrals. Let everyone know you’re on the hunt; you’d be surprised at who might have a contact in the industry!
✨Apply Through Our Website!
Make sure to check out Cory's career page for the latest apprenticeship openings. We always have various roles available, and applying directly through our site can help you stand out as a candidate eager to start learning and working with us!
We think you need these skills to ace Welding Apprenticeship in Gravesend
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Skills:In skilled trades, your hands-on abilities say a lot. Be sure to highlight any relevant experience you've had—whether that's in school, past jobs, or personal projects. If you've got a knack for a certain technique or trade, make it shine on your CV!
Certifications Count!:If you’ve got any relevant certifications or training, don’t hesitate to showcase them. Details like your health and safety qualifications or any specific trade courses you've completed can set you apart from the competition. Just make sure they’re super clear and easy to find on your application!
Express Your Enthusiasm:For an apprenticeship, your motivation is key. Use your cover letter to explain why you’re eager to learn and grow in your chosen trade. Talk about what excites you about the industry and how working at Cory can help you achieve your goals.
Tailor Your Application for Cory:When you’re applying, make sure to personalise your application for Cory. Do a bit of research on the company’s values and goals in skilled trades, and mention how your aspirations and values align with theirs. This shows you’ve done your homework and are genuinely keen on joining their team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Cory
✨Show Off Your Hands-On Skills
As we're diving into the skilled trades for your apprenticeship, make sure you highlight any practical experience you’ve had. Whether you’ve done DIY projects or worked with tools before, let them know how comfortable you are getting your hands dirty and solving real-world problems.
✨Be Ready for Practical Assessments
Expect a hands-on assessment during the interview or as part of your apprenticeship application. You might be asked to demonstrate a specific skill or technique relevant to the trade—so brush up on your practical skills and come prepared to showcase what you’ve got!
✨Learn About the Tools of the Trade
Familiarise yourself with the common tools and equipment used in your trade before the interview. They might ask about your experience with certain tools or methods, so having a basic understanding and mentioning any tools you’ve used can really set you apart.
✨Express Your Willingness to Learn
As an apprentice, showing your eagerness to learn is crucial! Talk about your motivation for joining the industry and any steps you've taken to educate yourself, like online resources or workshops, to demonstrate you’re ready to grow with the company.
