The Future – Training for Life

Since the rebirth of the yard over a decade ago, Swan Hunter has maintained a training programme for young people that will hopefully ensure future generations of skilled workers are available to the industry and the region. Our apprentice programme has seen approximately 25 new entrants every year for the last 10 years, these apprentices being trained in both office and yard skills in our dedicated training school where full time training managers and supervisors provide not only craft skill training but also the key elements of safety & environmental awareness, general industry knowledge and all the ingredients for future personal development.

We operate a 4 year modern apprentice scheme for school leavers and have also piloted a very successful adult apprentice scheme for 25 to 35 year olds as well as offering graduate training for the more academic students. Most students are encouraged to attain at least NVQ level 3 status and are normally found positions within the company upon leaving training. Our training group also works very closely with schools within the region to give support in the way of work placement and to generally create awareness of what the engineering industry has to offer.

Just a few of our successes include:

• Several Craft Apprentices gaining university places as Naval Architects.
• National Skillweld competition – finalists in 2003 & regional winners in 2001.
• Runners up in 2003 of the Worshipful Company of Shipwrights Queen’s Jubilee Silver medal competition.
• The 2004 Evening Chronicle Young Achiever Awards 200.
• Manufacture of 4m tall Commemorative Stainless Steel Statue, commissioned by Manchester City Councils to commemorate ‘Skill City’ created by the Princess Trust and aimed at inspiring 14 to 25 year olds, an event attracting over 80,000 visitors.