With the enrolment of a new group of apprentices, attendance at upcoming careers fairs and a recruitment evening in collaboration with the Pendennis Group, following its recent partnership, Cockwells is dedicated to building a bright future for the British boatbuilding industry.
 
The company has recently welcomed its second cohort to study the City & Guilds Level 3 Boatbuilder qualification that it offers through a joint venture with Cornwall Marine Network, which is the only one of its kind in Cornwall.
 
This apprenticeship equips learners aged 16 and above with the hands-on skills and theoretical knowledge required to embark on fulfilling careers in the marine sector. Over a 48-month period, apprentices receive training that splits time between practical work and classroom learning, with the first three weeks devoted to intensive ‘practice and play’ at Cockwells’ Ponsharden site, The Southwest Shipyard.
 
This introduction includes a range of foundational skills such as joinery, fibreglass wet layup, and machinery competency, all of which are designed to build confidence before the apprentices transfer fully to the workplace.
 
“We are excited to continue to expand our partnership with Cockwells to deliver this tailored apprenticeship scheme,” said Paul Wickes MBE, CEO at Cornwall Marine Network. “I completed a four-year apprenticeship after I left school and it has provided the solid foundation on which I have developed my career ever since. Through our City & Guilds-accredited programme with Cockwells, apprentices develop skills across production, manufacturing, service and construction, which will equally prepare them for a diverse array of jobs in boatbuilding and the broader marine industry going forwards.”
 
Upon completing the programme, apprentices can explore various career paths within the sector, as project managers, marine engineers, naval architects and boatyard operatives.
 
As part of Cockwells’ mission to engage with young people with the aim of sparking their interest in the boatbuilding industry, the company will be attending the Penryn College Careers Fair on Wednesday 23rd October between 8:45am and 4:30pm. This event is open to all year groups, which will enable the Cockwells team to connect with students of different ages, discuss the qualifications, skills and experiences that are essential for success, and inspire the next generation to consider the range of opportunities that exist, whether they wish to remain in Cornwall or venture further afield to explore their future potential.
 
Following the company’s recent integration within the Pendennis Group and with a busy order book that extends well into 2025, Cockwells is actively seeking skilled tradespeople and talented support staff for immediate starts. To facilitate this, the company will be participating in Pendennis Shipyard’s Recruitment Open Evening on Wednesday 23rd October from 5pm to 8pm.
 
“We are passionate about nurturing new talent and offering opportunities for professional development within our team,” said Cockwells’ Managing Director, Dean Short. “Whether you are an experienced tradesperson or looking to start a new career, we invite you to attend the Pendennis Shipyard recruitment evening to find out more about joining us.”
 
With flexible working patterns, including four- and five-day working week options, as well as a collaborative and dynamic team environment, Cockwells offers a highly rewarding career path for those who are eager to join the marine sector.
 
Cockwells will also be attending Falmouth Marine School’s annual Industry Day on Wednesday 27th November from 12 noon to 4pm.