Future mariners - apply now for a CalMac modern apprenticeship

They are seeking the most dedicated and enthusiastic 17-24-year-olds who have a genuine passion for starting an exciting maritime career.

Benefits of joining the popular CalMac Modern Apprenticeship Programme include:

• They pay for your college, travel, accommodation and cover your meals when you are away from home - no student loans required.
• Off the job training at college.
• Excellent salary with increments throughout your training.
• 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.

Applications for the 2024 intake will open today for 20 places on the two options within the programme - Engine Rating and Deck Rating. All apprentices will train and study at the City of Glasgow College on courses of between 18 and 20 months.

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. Feedback tells us that this programme is highly rewarding, and it makes great business sense - especially when those who qualify go on to become employed by the company.

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 Oban, Stornoway, Greenock, and, Bute.

Current apprentices joined the company scheme in September 2023. Cameron Hill, from Oban, said: "I had heard that CalMac is a great company to work for and I was really pleased to be selected. I am a deck trainee and am really looking forward to going to sea. I would love to work my way up in the company as far as possible."

Fellow apprentice Louise Lowrie, from Ardbeg on Bute, added: "I applied for the apprenticeship after seeing it advertised on Facebook. Even though I am from an island and see ferries every day, you don't get to see the in-depth procedures about the way that they work, so I am looking forward to learning more about that. My goal is to become a captain one day."

Applications close on Monday 18 March 2024 at 9am. Apply here  https://ow.ly/iXYH50QKFnU