Boat Builder Apprentice - Richardsons Yacht Services

Job Posted: 25 June 2025

• Contract Term: Apprenticeships
• Location: Newport, Isle of Wight
• Contract Type: Full time
• Salary: £7.55 per hour
• Industries: Apprenticeships Engineering Marine

Here at The Isle of Wight College we work with a number of employers, in a vast array of industries. A fantastic opportunity has arisen to work as a Boat Builder Apprentice at Richardsons Yacht Services.

This is a unique opportunity to join a thriving Isle of Wight Boat Builders, Chandlery, Repairs and Re-fits organisation.

Established in 1988, Richardson’s Yacht Services has proudly remained a family-run business with strong local roots and a passion for all things boating. With yacht refits and servicing at the core of what we do, we’ve built a reputation for quality, reliability, and a friendly, hands-on approach.

Based at Island Harbour Marina on the River Medina, and also at Thetis Wharf, Cowes, Isle of Wight, our operations have steadily grown to offer a comprehensive range of services for vessels up to 50 tons—providing a true “one-stop shop” for boat owners. From routine maintenance and complex refits to engineering, GRP work, and fabrication, we’re here to keep you and your boat afloat and in top condition.

Adding to the excitement, we’ve now opened a new chandlery in Cowes, making it even easier for local boaters to access essential parts, tools, and marine supplies.

Continuing our commitment to skills and the next generation of boat builders, we are now seeking an enthusiastic Boat Builder Apprentice to join our small, dedicated team at the boatyard in Island Harbour.

Main tasks and responsibilities to include:

The successful candidate will learn:

·         All aspects of yacht repairs and refits

·         Woodworking

·         Plumbing aspects

·         Painting

·         Fitting bow, and stern thrusters

·         Fabricating work

·         Electrics

·         Antifouling

·         Polishing and many more skills

Essential Qualities and Skills:

·         Interested in the water and boating

·         Good hand skills

·         Attention to detail

·         Working well both within a small team of qualified boatbuilders and independently

·         Communication skills

·         Ability to resolve problems quickly

Apprenticeship Standard:

·     Boat Builder Apprenticeship Level 3 Apprenticeship Standard

·     Duration of Apprenticeship will be between 42 – 35 months

·     Functional Skills in Maths and English are required and if not previously achieved GCSE grade 4/C or above

·     There is a requirement to complete off the job training for 6 hours per week, time spent either learning something new, other courses or any support work that is not in your usual role will also be counted

·     Attendance at CECAMM as part of the apprenticeship

Working Week:

·         Monday to Friday

·         8.00am to 4.15pm

·         38.75 hours per week

·         Some weekend work may be required

Wage:

·         £7.55 per hour

Additional information:

The current National Minimum Wage (NMW) rate for apprentices is £7.55 per hour. This applies to 16-18-year-old apprentices and those aged over 19 in the first year of their Apprenticeship. For all other apprentices the National Minimum wage appropriate to their age applies. The Minimum Wage for Apprentices applies to time spent on the job plus time spent training. For more information visit: www.gov.uk/national-minimum-wage-rates

Once qualified and dependant on needs of the business at the time of apprenticeship completion, there may be the potential to grow within the company and become a part of a skilled workforce.

So, if this sounds like the next step you want to take with your career, then please apply with a cover letter and CV telling us why you feel you would be the ideal person to take on this brilliant opportunity!!