Cornwall Marine Network (CMN), in collaboration with Cockwells Modern & Classic Boatbuilding, has today launched a series of films showcasing the Level 3 Boatbuilder Apprenticeship.
The films – filmed and edited by CMN Marketing and Events Coordinator Dean Hodge – feature interviews with David Cockwell (Sales and Technical Director for Cockwells), Jo Cockwell (Director), Dean Short (Managing Director), and two of their current Level 3 Boatbuilding apprentices, Louis Foulkes and Jacob Wynn.
The Level 3 Boatbuilder Apprenticeship, a program co-delivered by Cockwells Skills Academy and Cornwall Marine Network, offers young people the opportunity to develop expert-level skills in traditional and modern boatbuilding techniques at the Cockwells premises and one of the CMN Centre of Excellence. Apprentices learn hands-on craftsmanship while working alongside leading professionals.
Both films provide an in-depth look at the apprenticeship experience from the perspectives of current apprentices and staff at Cockwells. Viewers will also get a behind-the-scenes look at Cockwells’ workshops, showcasing the intricate processes involved in boatbuilding, from including joinery, engineering and laminating, and the final design of the boats themselves.
The films form part of a wider campaign encouraging young people to consider boatbuilding as a viable and rewarding career path. The apprenticeship offers both practical and academic training, leading to a nationally recognised qualifications and the opportunity for full-time employment in the marine and boatbuilding sector.
Dean Short, Managing Director for Cockwells, said: “I’m a really big advocate for apprenticeships. A prime example of that is I myself started my career as an apprentice tool maker in a precision engineering business. For me, the best managers I’ve ever worked with have all come through an apprentice route. It’s critical we get the next generation of boatbuilders on board, and the opportunities are endless once they get those skills”.