Level 2 Composites Manufacturing Apprenticeship - Poole (September 2026 Intake)

About Sunseeker International

Sunseeker International is a global icon in the manufacture of luxury motor yachts, building market‑leading products since 1967. Based and manufactured in Poole on the south coast of England, Sunseeker is one of Dorset’s largest private employers and is represented on every continent by a global network of distributors. Never settling for second best, it’s this spirit of excellence that has driven Sunseeker to its leading position in the marine industry today.

Role Overview

As a Composite Laminator, you will contribute to the production of composite components made from Glass Reinforced Plastic (GRP). You’ll work on a wide range of moulds – from large structures such as hulls and decks to smaller components – developing both traditional wet‑lay‑up techniques and advanced GRP infusion methods. This is a hands‑on, physically demanding, team‑focused position, ideal for individuals seeking practical, labour‑intensive work within a supportive manufacturing environment. Throughout your training, you will develop strong foundational composite skills and excellent team working abilities across multiple trades. Working alongside experienced professionals, you’ll help build vessels that meet a world‑class standard for quality and performance.

Salary & Employment Details

• Salary: £10.85 per hour in year one, rising to £15.50 upon completion of training
• Employment Type: 24 month fixed term training contract
• Working Hours: 7:00am to 3:30pm (five days a week)
• College Hours: 8:30am to 5:00pm (block release – full week of study)
• Working Location: Sunseeker Shipyards, New Quay Road, Poole, BH15 4AB

Example responsibilities include:

• Carrying out wet lay-up laminating using a variety of raw materials
• Working with infusion and pre‑preg composite processes
• Installing structural stiffeners and bulkheads
• Fitting and bonding engine beds to specification
• Accurately measuring and mixing raw materials in line with company standards
• Trimming, finishing, and preparing GRP components
• Interpreting drawings and client specifications
• General housekeeping and application of LEAN manufacturing tools such as 5S

Our ideal candidate:

• Holds 4 GCSEs (predicted or achieved) including English, Maths at grades 9 to 2 (A* to E) or equivalent, such as a relevant level 1 vocational qualification (NVQ, C&G etc)
• Is available to commence employment in September 2026
• Has ambition to work in a fast paced construction environment in a factory setting (note: this apprenticeship is not based on the water)
• Is able to provide some examples of your interest in hands on building and construction. For example: work experience completed in this field, or home/school/club projects you have worked on to build something

Sunseeker apprentices benefit from:

• Paid block release to college
• 22 days holidays plus bank holidays
• A generous company pension scheme – 6% employer contribution
• Company sick pay
• Overtime when available (for those 18 or older)
• The opportunity for a permanent contract on completion of your apprenticeship
• Promotion opportunities and further education options also exist on the completion of training
• Private medical insurance, dental care and an extra 3 days holiday after four years service

Our Pay Rates:

• Year 1: £10.85 p/h irrespective of age
• Year 2: £12.71 p/h
• On completion up to £15.50 p/h, plus overtime if available

There is no maximum age restriction or requirement for apprenticeship funding, however the pay grades remain the same. Any employment offers will be conditional upon: The Company receiving two acceptable references, proving your ongoing right to work in the UK and satisfactory evidence of your achieved qualifications. Key dates for assessment and interview processes to be confirmed. You must be available to start on Tuesday 1 September 2026.