At a Glance
- Tasks: Learn blacksmithing skills and create metal components for exciting engineering projects.
- Company: Join Navantia UK, a leader in defence and maritime innovation.
- Benefits: Competitive pay, pension, healthcare plan, and 33 days holiday.
- Other info: Inclusive workplace focused on equal opportunities and personal growth.
- Why this job: Kickstart your career with hands-on training and a recognised qualification.
- Qualifications: GCSE Maths and English (C/4 or above) or willingness to improve.
The predicted salary is between 800 - 1400 € per month.
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.
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
- Essential
- Hold a minimum of a grade (C)4/5 in GCSE Maths 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.
Blacksmith Apprenticeship (Appledore) employer: Navantia UK
Navantia UK is an exceptional employer, offering a unique opportunity for aspiring blacksmiths to develop their skills in a supportive and innovative environment. With a commitment to employee growth through comprehensive training programmes and a focus on inclusivity, we provide competitive benefits including a company pension, healthcare cash plan, and 33 days of holiday. Located in Appledore, our apprenticeship programme not only equips you with practical experience but also connects you with a rich heritage in maritime and defence industries, making it a rewarding place to launch your career.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Blacksmith Apprenticeship (Appledore)
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the company! Research Navantia UK and their projects. Understanding their mission and values will help you connect during interviews and show that you're genuinely interested in being part of their team.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice your skills! If you can, try out some basic blacksmithing techniques or related crafts before your interview. This hands-on experience will not only boost your confidence but also give you something cool to talk about when they ask about your passion for the trade.
✨Tip Number 3
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former apprentices at Navantia UK through social media or local events. They can provide insider tips and might even put in a good word for you!
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining the team. Don’t forget to follow up after applying; a little persistence can go a long way!
We think you need these skills to ace Blacksmith Apprenticeship (Appledore)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion:When writing your application, let your enthusiasm for blacksmithing shine through! We want to see your genuine interest in the craft and how eager you are to learn and grow with us.
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the apprenticeship. Highlight any relevant skills or experiences, even if they’re from school projects or hobbies. We love seeing how you’ve engaged with engineering or fabrication in your own time!
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application clear and to the point. Use straightforward language and avoid jargon. We appreciate a well-structured application that makes it easy for us to see why you’d be a great fit for the role.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us directly. Plus, you’ll find all the details you need about the apprenticeship programme there.
How to prepare for a job interview at Navantia UK
✨Know Your Craft
Before the interview, brush up on basic blacksmithing techniques and terminology. Familiarise yourself with the tools and machinery mentioned in the job description, like forges and welding equipment. This will show your genuine interest and readiness to learn.
✨Show Enthusiasm
Express your passion for blacksmithing and engineering during the interview. Share any relevant experiences or projects you've worked on, even if they're just personal or academic. Employers love to see candidates who are eager to develop their skills and contribute to the team.
✨Ask Smart Questions
Prepare a few thoughtful questions about the apprenticeship programme and the company. Inquire about the types of projects you might work on or the training methods used. This demonstrates your proactive attitude and helps you gauge if the role is the right fit for you.
✨Be Professional and Punctual
Arrive on time for your interview and dress appropriately. A neat appearance and punctuality reflect your commitment and respect for the opportunity. Remember, first impressions matter, especially in a hands-on trade like blacksmithing.
