Blacksmith Apprenticeship (Appledore)

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 an 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 an EAL Level 3 Diploma in Maritime Defence (Portfolio). As an Apprentice, you will attend college and receive both practical and theoretical training as 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.

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. Develop the ability to read and interpret engineering drawings, measurements, and templates.
• 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.

Qualifications:

• Hold a minimum of a grade (C)4/5 in GCSE Math’s and English or a willingness to work towards.
• Excellent communication skills with the ability to use your own initiative and a strong drive to succeed.
• Enthusiasm and determination to learn and develop skills in fabrication.
• Ability to get on with colleagues and customers.
• Commitment to complete all college work that is set within the programme requirements.
• To participate in scheduled reviews that will assess competences, behaviours and college progression.
• An agreement to complete your training diligently and punctually.
• To at all times, conduct yourself at work, college and within the local community in a responsible manner and promote to the best of your ability, the interests of the company.

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.

Additional Information:

On Offer: Competitive hourly rate, company pension, health care cash plan (optional), 33 days holiday, life assurance, great opportunity to kick start your career.

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, focuses 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 online, please contact us at people.skills@harland-wolff.com and one of the team will be in contact to help you.