At a Glance
- Tasks: Help preserve HMS Victory by conserving and repairing historic timber structures.
- Company: Join the Royal Navy Museums team in a unique heritage environment.
- Benefits: 25 days' annual leave, flexible working, and discounts at shops and cafes.
- Other info: Enjoy mentoring from experienced Shipwrights and a recognised Boatbuilder Apprenticeship qualification.
- Why this job: Gain hands-on experience and develop traditional craftsmanship skills on a national heritage project.
- Qualifications: No prior shipbuilding experience needed; just enthusiasm and a willingness to learn.
The predicted salary is between 17865 - 21835 £ per year.
Join our team and help preserve one of the world's most famous ships
The Royal Navy Museums (RNM) is seeking two enthusiastic Apprentice Shipwrights to join the team delivering the conservation of the world's oldest commissioned warship HMS Victory.
This is a fixed term 32 month apprenticeship.
As an Apprentice Shipwright, you will work alongside our team of existing Shipwrights and will help conserve and repair historic timber structures while studying towards a recognised Boatbuilder Apprenticeship programme.
What you will learn
During the apprenticeship you will receive practical training in
- Traditional woodworking and joinery techniques
- Timber preparation and construction methods
- Boatbuilding and shipbuilding practices
- Use and maintenance of hand and power tools
- Hull, deck and interior construction
- Heritage conservation and restoration techniques
- Health, safety and safe working practices
- Communication, teamwork and project management skills
- Training & Development
As an Apprentice Shipwright, you will combine practical, hands-on experience at HMS Victory with structured training delivered through our apprenticeship partner, Pioneer Sailing Trust.
For one week each month, you will attend training at Pioneer Sailing Trust in Brightlingsea, Essex, where you will develop specialist boatbuilding, joinery and marine skills alongside other apprentices.
Accommodation will be provided during these training weeks, and travel expenses to and from Brightlingsea can be reclaimed through Pioneer Sailing.
Throughout the 32 month apprenticeship, you will be supported by a dedicated mentor, who will help guide your development, provide practical support and ensure you gain the skills, knowledge and confidence needed to succeed.
What we're looking for
We are looking for people who are
- Interested in developing traditional craft skills and learning a specialist trade.
- Interested in woodworking, boats or heritage crafts
- Keen to learn new skills and develop a specialist trade
- Reliable, motivated and committed to completing an apprenticeship programme
- Able to work effectively as part of a team
- Willing to work in a physically active environment, including lifting, carrying and working at height when required
You do not need previous shipbuilding experience. We welcome applications from individuals who demonstrate enthusiasm, practical aptitude and a willingness to learn.
- What you'll gain
- A recognised Boatbuilder Apprenticeship qualification
- Practical experience working on HMS Victory
- Mentoring from experienced Shipwrights and heritage specialists
- A unique opportunity to develop traditional craftsmanship skills
- Experience working within a national museum and conservation environment
- The chance to contribute to a nationally important heritage project
We are aiming for apprentices to join the Royal Navy Museums team during the week commencing
7 September 2026 , allowing time for induction, training and familiarisation with the site before attending the next apprenticeship intake with Pioneer Sailing Trust on
14 September 2026 .
What we offer
- The opportunity to be part of a friendly and diverse workplace within a unique heritage environment.
- 25 days' annual leave (plus bank holidays), pro rata for part time employees, with the option to purchase additional annual leave.
- Enhanced maternity/adoption and paternity pay.
- Flexible working.
- Employee Assistance Programme.
- Free admission to other national museums and attractions within the reciprocal agreement.
- Discounts at our shops and cafes.
- Free and discounted tickets for family and friends.
- A range of other benefits including cycle to work
- Paid reservist leave.
Our recruitment process will consist of an initial Microsoft Teams call followed by a face-to-face interview in Portsmouth.
The Teams stage will be an opportunity for us to get to know you, learn more about your reasons for applying and discuss any relevant experience, interests or skills you would like to share.
Candidates invited to the face-to-face stage will receive the interview questions in advance as we want you to succeed and have the best opportunity to showcase your enthusiasm, potential and suitability for the apprenticeship.
If you require reasonable adjustments to be made to the application process because of a disability.
This post requires a DBS check as a requirement of working on the naval base, as well as the right to work in the UK. Please note we cannot currently sponsor work visas.
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Shipwright Apprentice - HMS Victory in Portsmouth employer: National Museum of the Royal Navy
The National Museum of the Royal Navy is an exceptional employer, offering a unique opportunity to work on the restoration of historic ships like HMS Victory in the vibrant maritime city of Portsmouth. With a strong emphasis on teamwork and safety, employees benefit from a collaborative work culture that fosters professional growth and skill development, while also enjoying the chance to travel to other RNM sites across the UK. Join us to be part of a meaningful conservation programme that preserves our naval heritage for future generations.
Contact Details:
National Museum of the Royal Navy Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Shipwright Apprentice - HMS Victory in Portsmouth
✨Get Hands-On Experience
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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 National Museum of the Royal Navy'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 Shipwright Apprentice - HMS Victory in Portsmouth
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 National Museum of the Royal Navy can help you achieve your goals.
Tailor Your Application for National Museum of the Royal Navy:When you’re applying, make sure to personalise your application for National Museum of the Royal Navy. 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 National Museum of the Royal Navy
✨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.
