"My name is Maddy, and I am studying the Maritime Engineering Technician Apprenticeship Level 3 at South Essex College Group. This is my story.

I had no previous background in marine engineering before joining South Essex College Group. In 2023, I enrolled on the one-year Marine Study Group programme and quickly discovered how much I enjoyed the subject. After completing the course, I decided to continue my journey and progress onto the Maritime Engineering Technician Apprenticeship.

The apprenticeship route appealed to me because it offered the opportunity to gain real-world experience while working within the marine industry. Being in the workplace four to five days a week has allowed me to develop practical skills and tackle challenges that you would not typically encounter in a workshop environment. For me, there was no other route that offered the same level of hands-on experience.

One of the things I have enjoyed most about my apprenticeship is the variety it provides. I have had the opportunity to build a wide range of skills and experience through the different types of work my employer undertakes. I have also enjoyed meeting people from many different backgrounds within the industry and learning from their experiences.

There was a point during my apprenticeship when I considered leaving the course. However, I realised that completing the programme would be an important stepping-stone in my career and could open up many opportunities in the future. Looking back, I am pleased that I made the decision to continue, and I am grateful for the support and encouragement I received from those around me. I would say that my employer and the apprenticeships team have played an important role in supporting me throughout my journey so far. Their guidance and encouragement have helped me stay focused and continue progressing towards my goals.

Since starting the apprenticeship, I have developed stronger communication skills, gained confidence working with different types of people, and improved my problem-solving abilities. Learning how to approach challenges and find solutions when things do not go to plan has been a valuable part of my development. Although I am still exploring my future career options, one of the things that excites me most about marine engineering is the variety of opportunities it offers. It is a career path that could take me around the world and provide many different experiences throughout my working life.

Being a student at South Essex College Group has given me the opportunity to explore a career path I am passionate about, develop valuable skills and build a strong foundation for my future in the marine industry.

My advice to anyone considering a Maritime Engineering Technician Apprenticeship would be to give it a try. The industry offers a huge range of opportunities and specialisms, meaning there is something to suit a wide variety of interests and skills. 

If you enjoy it, it can lead to a rewarding and lifelong career!"

Find out more about Maritime Engineering Technician Apprenticeship Level 3

My name is Danny Burns, and I studied with the South Essex College Group. This is my story.

I studied the Warehouse and Storage Skills Bootcamp at Thurrock College, a free, hands-on, employer-led programme designed to give learners the skills employers in the logistics sector are looking for.

I really enjoyed my time on the course. I made new friends and gained the skills and certifications I needed to move into the industry, including an RTITB Forklift Licence and my CSCS card.

Before starting the Warehouse and Storage Skills Bootcamp, I had some difficulty finding a job. However, after successfully completing the programme, Darren and the Logistics team were incredibly supportive and helped me secure an apprenticeship.

I am now an apprentice at Rayleigh Cold Store on their Warehouse to Wheels apprenticeship scheme. This will allow me to gain further industry experience in warehousing before studying for my LGV licence in my second year.

The Skills Bootcamp has given me the opportunity to secure an apprenticeship and take the first steps towards becoming an LGV driver, something I have always wanted to do.