It’s Scottish Apprenticeship Week (7 to 11 March 2022), a time to shine a light on the vital role apprenticeships play in supporting people, employers and the economy.
The latest recruits to join our Deck Rating Apprenticeship scheme are Morag and Jack. They are in their first year and combine sea training on NLB’s vessel PHAROS with shore training at City of Glasgow College, Maritime Education and Training. Find out what advice they would give to others and what their highlights have been so far.
Morag, Deck Rating Apprentice said:
“The apprenticeship with NLB offers a really unique opportunity to see remote parts of the UK. I’d have to say my highlight so far has been sailing up to Shetland and seeing Muckle Flugga Lighthouse. I would definitely recommend an apprenticeship to other young people. It gives you experience in the workplace as well as earning qualifications and a wage.”
Jack, Deck Rating Apprentice commented:
“My biggest highlight is seeing Scotland from a different perspective. When I’m at sea, every day is a picture postcard day. I would absolutely recommend an apprenticeship to other people. No matter where you decide to do it, it’s just a great way to build transferable skills, friendships and plenty of wonderful memories.
“I can’t wait to see what the future has in store for this amazing new career path. Plus it makes working for the Northern Lighthouse Board all the more special knowing that I am working alongside my father, who is Bosun on Pharos.”
Engineering Apprenticeships
Morgan and Shaun are in the first year of their Engineering Apprenticeships and combine study at Forth Valley College with practical on the job training.
Morgan, Mechanical Engineering Apprentice said:
“My highlight since I started has been going to NLB’s Oban base. It was great to meet everyone and to see the workshop and the technology used on the lighthouses and the machinery that I’ll be using as a Mechanical Technician.
“My advice for a first-year Mechanical Apprentice is to keep up with the work that’s given to you and look forward to what you’ll be doing the next day.”
Shaun, Electrical Engineering Apprentice
“So far my highlight has been visiting NLB’s HQ in Edinburgh and speaking to some of the staff. It was great getting to know a bit more about the organisation and the people who work there.
“As a 23-year-old and having already completed a few years at college I would definitely recommend an Apprenticeship. You’re a lot more involved with the practical side of things as well as the college aspect. You can physically see what you are learning and for me that’s really important.”
The Northern Lighthouse Board offers Engineering and Deck Rating Apprenticeships. The Deck Rating Apprenticeship Scheme started in 2016. Since then four apprentices have successfully completed their apprenticeship and secured full-time employment with NLB.
The introduction of the Scheme has had the obvious benefit of selecting and nurturing young talent to join NLB’s workforce. And more particularly ensures that by the end of their training, they have the combination of specialist skills and knowledge that are bespoke to NLB’s requirements. For example, deck work, buoy maintenance, helicopter operations and lighthouse storing operations.
NLB’s first Engineering Apprentices completed their training in 2021 and are now employed as full-time Technicians with the organisation.
