UK Visit Explores Opportunities for Falkland Apprentices

Between 11 and 15 May 2026, Emma Brook travelled across England and Wales to visit a number of colleges and training providers to explore opportunities that could benefit Falkland Islands apprentices and students in the future.

The first visit was to Falmouth Marine School in Cornwall. Located in the heart of Falmouth. The college offers a range of marine engineering courses from Level 1 to Level 3, alongside boat building and other marine-related qualifications.

The purpose of the visit was to examine the marine engineering programmes, which could prove highly valuable to the Falklands’ maritime sector and future developments within the oil industry, where qualified marine engineers are increasingly in demand. Although relatively small in size, the college holds an Ofsted “Outstanding” rating and boasts an excellent employment record for students completing its Level 3 Marine Engineering courses.

A strong emphasis is placed on developing well-rounded mariners. In addition to engineering studies, students gain experience in areas such as boat building and are offered opportunities to learn sailing and rowing in traditional Cornish gigs.

On Thursday, Emma attended a meeting in Preston with JTL Training, a charitable organisation specialising in apprenticeship training for electricians and plumbers. JTL operates centres across the UK, delivering industry training and AM2 assessments for electrical apprentices.

During the visit, JTL was hosting a regional competition to identify the UK’s top electrical apprentices, with participants travelling from across the country, including Scotland, to compete. The event also provided an opportunity to meet local employers and hear first-hand accounts of their experiences working with JTL to support apprentices in achieving their qualifications.

On Friday, Emma visited Zenith, the accommodation provider in Cardiff that has housed Falkland Islands apprentices for many years. Zenith also offers supervised accommodation for young people aged 16 to 18 who are enrolled at Cardiff and Vale College.

The accommodation was found to be of a very high standard, with all rooms featuring en-suite facilities and kitchenettes. Zenith also provides a wide range of communal facilities, including a games room, a well-equipped gym with a small sports court, a rooftop terrace, study areas, a wellness room offering activities such as yoga, and a family kitchen designed to provide a welcoming “home away from home” environment.

Extensive safeguarding measures are in place for young residents. Two guardians live on-site and remain on call throughout the students’ stay, while all residents are required to sign in by 9.30pm each evening. Entry and exit to the building is monitored באמצעות secure access cards, which also provide access only to individual rooms. Reception areas are staffed 24 hours a day, and breakfast is available each morning.

While in Cardiff, Emma also met with a number of Falkland Islands apprentices and spoke with tutors about their progress. She was pleased to report that many apprentices are performing extremely well in their studies, with tutors speaking very highly of their commitment and achievements.