Pre-apprenticeships

A supported first step into engineering careers

 

Our pre‑apprenticeship programmes give young people a supported first step into engineering careers, especially those who may not yet meet the academic requirements for a full apprenticeship. Delivered in Plymouth, Rosyth and our Clyde locations, the programme is shaped around the needs of local communities and the barriers many young people face when accessing technical career routes.

We work closely with schools, colleges and local partners to identify learners who show interest and potential but may have had limited access to STEM subjects, support or opportunities. By offering an accessible entry route, we help broaden participation and ensure more young people can explore engineering as a realistic and achievable career.

Learners receive academic development, confidence‑building activities, mentoring and hands‑on experiences that prepare them for the next stage of their journey. This supportive environment helps them build the skills and readiness needed to progress.

The programme has grown year on year, with strong progression into full apprenticeships and demonstrable benefits for learners who might otherwise miss out on engineering pathways.

“The pre-apprenticeship provides a relaxed yet professional environment where we can grow together, build confidence, and develop our understanding, knowledge, and skills. Through it, I’ve made friends, discovered more about myself, and began shaping who I am as a professional entering the world of work.”

Joe

“This programme has continually amazed me with new insights and has pushed me to deepen my understanding of engineering. Programme leaders have played a major role in my rapid progress by answering my questions with precision, presenting work in a clear and accessible way, and consistently providing essential resources.”

Blake

“My journey so far has provided me with a strong background, solid knowledge, and valuable preparation for taking the next step into a modern apprenticeship. Through the programme, my understanding has grown steadily, and I now have a much clearer idea of the skills, expectations, and objectives involved in progressing within the engineering industry.

As my knowledge has increased, so has my confidence. The learning environment has helped me become more comfortable asking questions, contributing in class, and taking on new challenges. This has made a big difference in how prepared I feel to move forward into an apprenticeship.”

Ryan

Get in touch

If you’d like to learn more about our pre‑apprenticeship opportunities, our External Engagement teams are ready to support you. Connect with our teams at Clyde, Rosyth, or Devonport for guidance, partnership enquiries, or further information.

 

Clyde: [email protected]

Rosyth: [email protected]

Devonport: [email protected]