Dear Oscar, Can you explain the difference between a level 2 and 3 Apprenticeship and whom I can talk to about it, as I would like to be a marine engineer.
Adam |
Dear Adam, An apprentice would be working towards a level 2 qualification, whereas an Advanced Apprentice would be working towards a level 3 qualification. In order to become an apprentice you therefore need to be able to cope with a level 2 programme and for an Advanced Apprentice a level 3 programme. Entry requirements are generally speaking GCSE grade D to Fs or equivalent for an Apprentice and GCSE grades A to Cs for an Advanced Apprentice. All Level 2 apprentices are positively encouraged to work hard and progress to a Level 3 Advanced Apprenticeship.
In order to gain an apprenticeship visit the apprenticeship website at www.apprenticeshipsonline.org and register your interest with one or more of the CoVE Training Providers. If you are employed you should talk to your employer about becoming an apprentice. If un-employed, visit your local Job Centre Plus who can provide you with the relevant information. If you are still attending school, discuss this with your School Careers Officer. If attending a College of further education, please discuss your requirements with Student Services personnel who will be able assist you. Oscar.
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Hello Oscar, How do I find a company that will give me an apprenticeship?
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Hi Bill, once you are sure of what apprenticeship type you want, there are a number of ways to find a placement company. Initially you may like to visit and register with the apprenticeship web site at
www.apprenticeshipsonline.org
this is the site where local Training Providers advertise their apprenticeships. That’s the best start.
You may also like to write directly to an employer and request an appointment to discuss any apprenticeship opportunities they may have to offer. (If you merely telephone and they are busy, you might not receive the reply you wanted!). Employers like to see potential employees with initiative and by writing a letter (enclose a CV or describe your experience if you are currently employed) you will have already shown that you are literate with both initiative and a positive disposition. Include in your letter that if they have no current positions available that you are prepared to work with them on a full or part-time basis in order to prove yourself to them. In the event you receive a positive reply and an appointment, be punctual (always arrive 5 minutes prior to the appointed time), dress smartly and answer their questions politely and fully. Have your Record of Achievement with you, which should include a personal statement, and your academic qualification certificates and if applicable, any references from previous employers or your School reports. If you do not receive a reply, then by all means telephone and politely enquire if it is their intention to reply. If the answer is no, the important thing to remember is not to be disappointed but to remain positive, move on and write the next letter. Don’t be negative or this will manifest itself in your writing so be positive at all times. Keep your eye on the local paper as this gives a good indication of which companies are recruiting and therefore which companies may be able to offer apprenticeships. Good luck Bill, let us know when you are successful. Oscar.
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Dear Oscar, Help, I can’t find an apprenticeship in the marine industry! What can I do?
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Hi Wayne, Don’t give up…. and remain looking, the advice given in the previous question might assist you. Make sure that you register with the apprenticeship website, and then apply to all of the many providers who offer Marine Apprenticeships, that way you will stand the best chance of securing a place. It’s worth noting that not all employers participate in funded Apprenticeships but conduct their own and provide the training ‘in-house’, delivered by their experienced staff. There may be an opportunity with such a company and you can speak with your local Job Centre Plus or Connexions (Job Centre will put you in touch or you can visit their websites at
www.jobcentreplus.gov.uk
and www.connexions.gov.uk
who will be able to assist you further.)
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Hi Oscar, are you able to let me know what are the main three resins used in marine construction and repair for GRP boats?
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These can be either polyester, epoxy or vinylester resins. Always use the correct
protective clothing when using these materials Roger.
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Dear Oscar, I am confused as to the difference between power units and a drive units used in boats, can you explain please.
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No problem Will, a drive unit is the source of power for propulsion of the boat and a
drive unit is the delivery unit of that propulsion, be it propeller, impellor as in a jet ski
or a stern drive.
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Oscar, I am thinking of becoming a laminator and wanted to know what the difference is between primary and secondary bonding please.
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Hello Mason, primary bonding is where a structure is laminated into say, a boat during
it’s a manufacturing process and is therefore, an integral part of the boat. Secondary
bonding is where a structure is laminated onto the boat after it has completed its
original manufacturing process and is not part of the primary structure. (Such as a
GRP ‘cuddy’ added to an open boat using GRP matting and resin or maybe additional
Buoyancy chambers.)
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If you have a question about marine training, don’t be shy; ask our resident expert.
Oscar is an unparalled source of marine training knowledge for employers, students and everyone considering a career in the marine industry. Please
email Oscar by clicking here
or sending an email to info@cove4marine.co.uk.
Your question will be forwarded to Oscar. After submission, return to the site in a few days to view Oscar's reply.
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