From the outset the Harwich Mayflower Project has had the primary function of generating jobs and opportunities within the town, especially for the young. The construction of the Mayflower is a perfect opportunity to redevelop maritime and construction skills in a traditional English seafaring town which has suffered decline in recent years. At the beginning of 2012, 32% of the 18-24 year olds within the postcode CO12 (roughly covering old Harwich and Dovercourt) were unemployed and these individuals are often unaware of the huge range of maritime history on their doorstep. The number of apprenticeships completed in Harwich in recent years has been minimal and most of those which were available locally have not been concentrated in ‘industrial’ functions but more commonly in the service industries where there is less long-term economic benefit to the community.  

Ultimately the Harwich Mayflower Project has a single and unique point of focus which is the rejuvenation of the town through further education and training. Initially marine engineering apprenticeships, allied with the construction of The Mayflower, will provide immediate opportunities for maritime skills which in due course will lead to further development in relation to local leisure craft and the commercial marine industry.

Modern apprenticeships are work-based training programmes where the apprentice earns a wage and works alongside experienced staff to gain job-specific skills. An assessor visits the learner on site to complete the NVQ portion of the framework.  Typically, on a day-release basis, the apprentice receives training to work towards nationally recognised qualifications such as VRQ and additional key skills. There remains a shortfall of enlightened employers who are willing to support this "day for skills" training despite extensive government grants and the obvious long-term benefits. Accordingly, the Project has broadened its scope to offer other ‘taster’ courses such as pre-apprenticeships as well as a broader range of apprenticeships such as Construction. These also fit Project needs as noted in the Buildings section.  Please click on the course which most interests you:

Youth East
Youth Works
Marine Engineering Apprenticeship Level 2
Marine Engineering Apprenticeship Level 3
Construction Apprenticeships Level 2
Other Projected Courses

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