BLOG: Nathan's Apprenticeship Story

As part of National Apprenticeship Week 2024, hear from some of our apprentices who are sharing their stories in their own words:

Hi, I’m Nathan and I’m a first year plater and welder apprentice.

I work for A&P Tyne, and we build ships and submarines. This means that I get to see a wide range of different types of ships every day.

I found that an apprenticeship was a better alternative to me over university, because I’m getting paid to learn while getting valuable work experience. An apprenticeship is hands down the best way for me to start my career in welding. It’s such a practical subject that takes years and years of practise to master and the apprenticeship not only gives me the fundamental knowledge and experience but I’m also learning so much working alongside guys who have been welders for years and years!

My advice to someone wanting to start an apprenticeship is that you need to be committed. I certainly am as my apprenticeship last for 4 years which would be a lot of time to waste if I wasn’t sure. Thankfully I am and I’m loving it.