Boat Builder Apprentices - Cheetah Marine

The Isle of Wight College; Newport; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

The Isle of Wight College is recruiting laminating apprentices at Cheetah Marine. The role will involve working closely with boat builders, learning skills in GRP and boat construction. Successful candidates will gain hands-on experience and essential training to develop a career in a dynamic marine industry.

Qualifications

• Keen interest in boat building and marine craftsmanship.
• Strong attention to detail and willingness to learn.
• Good hand-eye coordination.

Responsibilities

• Assist with cutting and application of fibreglass.
• Lay up moulds using wet lay-up technique.
• Participate in training sessions for the apprenticeship.

Skills

Attention to detail

Practical skills

Team player

Education

GCSE grade C/4 or above in English & Maths

Job description

Here at The Isle of Wight College, we’re proud to partner with a wide network of dynamic employers across a diverse mix of industries. We’re excited to share two fantastic apprenticeship opportunities that are now available at Cheetah Marine in Ventnor.

Cheetah Marine continues to lead Europe in the specialist design and construction of power catamarans.

Cheetah Catamarans are renowned in the commercial world where time at sea is dictated by the weather conditions a boat can operate in. Excellent stability and rough weather capabilities are crucial to sea conditions that many Cheetahs work in daily, year in, year out.

We combine our customer's specification with our knowledge and experience gained from building over 350 catamarans. Rather excitingly, Cheetah Marine are now looking to recruit two apprentices into their friendly, supportive team.

As a laminating apprentice, you’ll work alongside experienced boat builders and composites specialists in a fast-paced, hands-on environment. This role is ideal for someone looking to gain in-depth skills in GRP (Glass Reinforced Plastic) and other modern composite materials used in boat construction.

Key Responsibilities and Tasks:

• Assist with the preparation, cutting, and application of fibreglass and resin systems.
• Lay up moulds using wet lay-up technique.
• Design and build custom moulds for lamination.
• Learn how to work from technical drawings and lamination schedules.
• Maintain a clean and safe work environment.
• Participate in training sessions and coursework to support your apprenticeship programme.

Essential Skills and Qualities:

• A keen interest in boat building and marine craftsmanship.
• Strong attention to detail and a willingness to learn.
• Good hand-eye coordination and practical skills.
• A team player with a positive attitude and commitment to safety.

Qualifications required:

·Applicants must have the right to live and work in the UK.

·Proof of this will be required.

Qualifications Required:

·GCSE grade C/4 or above in English & Maths (or equivalent qualification).

·This is a mandatory requirement.

Apprenticeship Standard:

• Boat Builder Level 3 Apprenticeship Standard.
• Duration of the apprenticeship will be between 42 and 45 months.
• There is a requirement to complete off the job training for 6 hours per week, time spent either learning something new, other courses or any support work that is not in your usual role will also be counted.
• Attendance at CECAMM as part of the Apprenticeship from September 2025.

Working Hours:

·40 hours per week.

·Monday to Friday – 08:00 – 16:00.

·3 Breaks during the day.

Wage:

·£7.55 per hour.

If you're ready to start a career in a dynamic and growing industry, we’d love to hear from you!

Additional information:

The current National Minimum Wage (NMW) rate for apprentices is £7.55 per hour. This applies to 16-18-year-old apprentices and those aged over 19 in the first year of their Apprenticeship. For all other apprentices the National Minimum wage appropriate to their age applies. The Minimum Wage for Apprentices applies to time spent on the job plus time spent training. For more information visit:www.gov.uk/national-minimum-wage-rates

Once qualified and dependant on needs of the business at the time of apprenticeship completion, there may be the potential to grow within the company and become part of a skilled workforce.

Your details will be processed in accordance with GDPR.

So, if this sounds like the next step you want to take with your career, then please apply with a cover letter and CV telling us why you feel you would be the ideal person to take on this brilliant opportunity!!