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National Apprenticeship Week — UKSA Apprentice Dreams Of Captaining His Own Vessel

Today marks the start of National Apprenticeship Week 2022, with several Isle of Wight enterprises seeking to add trainees to their workforce.

Josh Coates is one of those who has benefitted from a positive apprenticeship experience.

The 20-year-old (pictured crouching below/left) has plied his trade for Williams Shipping and found his ambition stoked by the past two years as an apprentice.

He said:

“Four of my closest friends are doing apprenticeships and three of those I met on this apprenticeship.

“It would be a dream to eventually captain a vessel and have my own deckhands while leading the team on jobs.”


Josh Coates during his apprenticeship at Williams Shipping

The two-year programme is now being offered again under the umbrella of Isle of Wight charity UKSA, which provides life-enhancing water-based adventures, education, and world-leading maritime training.

No previous experience is necessary, however every apprentice is required to pass the Maritime and Coastguard Agency medical requirements.

General applications to UKSA can also be made via email to [email protected] who will then endeavour to match you with an employer.

A full list of Isle of Wight based apprenticeships offered by a variety of companies is available to view online.

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