Apprentices find their sea legs with CalMac
Young people keen on a seagoing career are being encouraged to apply for the CalMac Modern Apprenticeship Programme.
Named as one of the top five UK companies for maritime apprentice schemes by the Merchant Navy Training Board, the scheme has seen 120 young people trained since it was set up in 2013.
Applications for the 2022 intake opened earlier this month and a social media campaign highlighting all aspects of the programme will run across online channels including TikTok and Instagram.
The scheme is designed to help young people who are passionate about the maritime sector gain qualifications and the experience necessary for a successful career within the sector.
There are three programme options: engine deck rating; retail and catering; and deck rating. All apprentices will train and study at the City of Glasgow College on courses of between 12 and 16 months.
Last year, successful apprentices moved into permanent roles as Seaman 1b’s, motormen and senior catering ratings. They are currently based on vessels across the network and come from the Isle of Lewis, Eriskay, Campbeltown, Greenock, Mull, Taynuilt, Coll and Benbecula.
Angus Campbell from Harris first heard about the CalMac apprenticeships through friends who had already completed the programme. He now provides relief cover across the CalMac fleet.
He said: ‘The idea of developing a career at sea and the hands-on approach greatly appealed to me. Life at college was fun and interesting. I thoroughly enjoyed the practical firefighting and personal survival courses.
‘I was surprised at how quickly I adjusted to life at sea and how well the crew are taken care of onboard the ship.'
Craig Evans, a graduate apprentice who now works on MV Clansman as a senior catering rating, said: ‘I applied for a modern apprenticeship with CalMac because I wanted a change of scenery, something outside of my comfort zone.
‘I’d worked in offices since leaving school and this was an opportunity to try a different career. Being from an island, CalMac has always been a part of my life. I enjoy the job. You see new faces passing through and there are new people to interact with, especially in the summer when it gets busy and you have people from all over the world travelling.’
Applicants can complete applications at https://www.calmac.co.uk/careers/modern-apprenticeships.