CalMac apprenticeship scheme is now open for applications
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CalMac has now opened their recruitment drive to find Scotland’s best seagoing apprentice candidates. CalMac are looking for the most dedicated and enthusiastic 17 to 24–year–olds, who have a genuine passion for starting an exciting maritime career.
The ferry operator's routes include one linking Ullapool and Lewis.
Benefits of joining the popular CalMac Modern Apprenticeship Programme include:
- CalMac pays for your college, travel, accommodation and cover your meals when you are away from home – no student loans required.
- On the job training by experienced professionals who will help you all the way.
- Two weeks at work and two weeks off working pattern.
- Your own personal mentor to support you with a career at sea.
- Company pension scheme.
CalMac is a recognised leader of seagoing apprenticeships, named by the Merchant Navy Training Board as one of the top five UK companies for maritime apprentice schemes. More than 150 young people have trained through the scheme since it was set up in 2013. The scheme is designed to help young people who are passionate about the maritime sector gain essential qualifications and the experience necessary for a successful career within the sector, and most importantly with CalMac.
There are two options within the programme – Engine Rating and Deck Rating. All apprentices will train and study at the City of Glasgow College.
Last year, the apprentices who successfully completed the programme all transitioned into permanent roles. They are currently based on vessels across the network and are from places including Benbecula, Eriskay, Bute, and Inverclyde.
Craig MacRitchie (18), from Lewis, said: “I am really enjoying working on the ship, no two days are the same. There lots of various jobs to do and I am gaining knowledge everyday about the daily running and maintenance of the ship's engines.
“My plan with CalMac is to finish my apprenticeship and hopefully gain a fulltime job as a motorman and stay with the company for a lifelong career at sea.”
Alex Yallop (23), and from Kilwinning, is a deck apprentice. He said: “I am enjoying all the hands–on learning and support from the rest of the crew on board too. College is also good because it gives you an understanding of what to expect on board.
“I applied because I have always had a passion for working at sea on boats and never wanted an ordinary 9–5 job, and this offers exactly that doing different things each day.
“I would recommend this to anyone who is looking to do something different working alongside other people who has a passion for boats or the communities we serve.”
Tanya Mackay (22), from Stornoway, is a deck trainee. She said: “I’d absolutely recommend this apprenticeship with CalMac. It gives you a good work/life balance and working for CalMac comes with many benefits. The crew are very supportive and will help you throughout your training”.
