Britten-Norman has opened applications for up to 10 places on its 4-year Advanced Technical Apprenticeship Programme, offering islanders the opportunity to begin a long-term career in aerospace engineering.
Based at the company’s Bembridge facility, the programme gives apprentices the opportunity to earn while they learn, working hands-on building one of the world’s most trusted and versatile aircraft – the Britten-Norman Islander.
The apprenticeship openings follow Britten-Norman’s announcement in 2023 that it would bring full aircraft production back to its Bembridge site from overseas. The company has grown its workforce by more than 40 percent in the past 12 months, reflecting continued investment in UK manufacturing and long-term employment on the Isle of Wight.
With over 1250 Islander aircraft delivered since the type first entered service, the aircraft continues to play a vital role in connecting communities and supporting essential services worldwide, including passenger transport, cargo operations, surveillance and special missions.
The apprenticeship is delivered in partnership with Isle of Wight College and is aligned to the Level 3 Aerospace Engineering Technician Apprenticeship Standard. Apprentices will combine classroom learning with real-world experience, developing practical engineering skills alongside experienced
Britten-Norman engineers whose work supports aircraft operated across the globe.
From day one, apprentices will learn how the Islander aircraft is built, maintained and prepared for operations in some of the most challenging environments in the world.
The 4-year programme is structured as follows:
Year 1 – Foundations
Apprentices will build core technical knowledge and practical skills while attending CECAMM College four days per week, with one day per week based on site at Britten-Norman. This phase supports the transition into full-time employment within the aerospace industry
Years 2 and 3 – Hands-on Aircraft Experience
Apprentices will rotate though a range of production and support areas, gaining direct experience working on Islander aircraft systems, components, and assemblies. Academic studies will continue alongside regular support from the apprenticeship team.
Year 4 – Specialisation and Qualification
In the final year, apprentices will develop specialist skills, contribute to live aircraft programmes, and complete their End Point Assessment, leading to full apprenticeship qualification. No prior aerospace experience is required. Britten-Norman is looking for motivated individuals with a positive attitude, curiosity and a willingness to learn. The programme is suitable for school leavers and those looking to start a practical, skilled career close to home.
On completion, apprentices will gain a nationally recognised qualification, highly transferable engineering skills, and the opportunity to build a long-term career within a growing aerospace manufacturer on the Isle of Wight.
Applications are now open. For more information and to apply, visit the Britten-Norman website.
Having worked in the Recruitment Industry and led Learning & Development teams, I’ve seen a shift in talent. Once, not so long ago, it was deemed that those with a degree stood a better chance of gaining employment; not nowadays.
There are many degrees these days that don’t prepare people for the skills needed to do many jobs. Furthermore, the cost of funding a degree, including tuition and living expenses, leaves many with a debt of £30,000.
When interviewing, I’ve seen those who have chosen an Apprenticeship instead of a Degree offer not only technical skills for the job, but also other qualities, such as maturity, self-respect, leadership, and ownership.
An Apprenticeship offers a candidate a better chance of getting into their dream role than spending four years studying theory (Degree) with no practical application or evidence to back it up.
Degrees are a dime a dozen, many persons
got the easiest degree to better their chances
of gaining employment.
Degrees don’t come with common sense or
knowledge.
I know many numpties with degrees I wouldn’t
employ any of them.
An excellent opportunity.I can remember my first day there as a apprentice back in the 80’s.Iam still in the aviation business now,travelling the world,carrying out Major repairs for airlines on their Aircraft.
Excellent Industry to get into,you’ll never be out of work.
Excellent news.