Full Breakdown
Navantia UK Expands Apprenticeship Programme to 750 by 2030
By Drooid · · How we work
In this breakdown
01
Expanding Apprenticeships Amid Yard Investment
Navantia UK announced that its nationwide apprenticeship commitment will rise from 500 to 750 places by 2030. The pledge was unveiled during a visit by Scottish Secretary Douglas Alexander MP and Minister for Defence Readiness and Industry Luke Pollard MP to the Methil yard in Fife on Monday 26 October. The increase is tied to the yard’s role in building three Fleet Solid Support ships for the Royal Fleet Auxiliary and to future Ministry of Defence projects.
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Investment and Workforce Growth at Methil
Since Navantia UK acquired the Methil facility in January 2025, total investment has reached £26.7 million, including £12 million earmarked this year for training facilities, modern machinery, infrastructure and new technology. The yard’s workforce has expanded from 180 to 275 employees, and 75 apprentices are currently training on site.
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Official Statements & Responses
“Apprentices are at the heart of defence’s industrial base that keeps this country safe. These opportunities pave the way for the next generation, providing essential skills, training and experience while contributing to the security of the UK.” — Industry
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Data & Statistics
- Current apprentices at Methil: 75 (including 21 new arrivals this year).
- Company-wide intake for 2026: 121 apprentices, adding to 222 already employed across Navantia UK’s four UK sites (Methil, Arnish, Belfast, Appledore).
- Investment to date: £26.7 million total, with £12 million for training and equipment this year.
- Workforce growth: from 180 to 275 staff since acquisition.
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What’s Next
The expanded apprenticeship pool is intended to supply skilled labour for the ongoing Fleet Solid Support programme and the upcoming Programme Euston, the Ministry of Defence’s floating-dock initiative at HM Naval Base Clyde. Navantia UK expects the larger apprentice cohort to underpin future commercial and defence contracts across the United Kingdom.