Apprentices at STS Defence
As an STS Defence apprentice, you’ll join an exciting, innovative technology and engineering company where we’ll make it our mission to invest in you by offering career development programmes that will support you in reaching your full potential.
We’ll give you the knowledge, skills and experience that you’ll need. We’ll teach, motivate and engage you in challenging tasks that will develop you into the best you can be.
Our apprentices develop through experience, teamwork and training in a workplace that values customer focus, development and empowerment. You’ll be given the chance to experience all the different aspects of our business.
Apprentice Flyer 2026
Benefits
Based on Gosport’s waterfront, in the heart of historic Portsmouth Harbour, we are a five-minute walk from the ferry terminal, the bus station and the high street.
Apprentices at STS Defence complete a three-year training programme (with one day release per week at a local training partner), gaining an industry recognised Level 3 Advanced qualification.
As an apprentice, you will benefit from a wide range of benefits, starting with a competitive salary well above the National Apprenticeship Wage, and increasing each year with progression.
As part of a dedicated and supportive team, you’ll have opportunities to work on a diverse, exciting and challenging range of projects and programmes.
You’ll have the opportunity to join our pension scheme with company contributions, 25 days Annual Leave in addition to Bank Holidays, Life Assurance cover, and our Cycle to Work tax-free cycle scheme, and other employee benefits.
On completion of training, apprentices are offered full-time roles within the company.
Meet some of our apprentices…
Connor, Advanced Engineering Apprentice
“Heading into my second year as an apprentice at STS Defence, I’ve really started to see how everything I’ve learned in STEM connects to the real world. I’ve gone from small individual tasks to taking on much bigger projects and real responsibility. Every day brings new challenges that push me to think critically, solve problems, and make sure complex systems come together perfectly. It’s so rewarding to know that the high-tech equipment I help build plays a part in protecting our nation.”
Lesley, Advanced Engineering Apprentice
“STS Defence is a versatile company that allows me to be myself, and allows me the opportunity demonstrate a range of personal skills, including leadership, communication, and drawing, as well as my understanding of certain technical terms. I have been able to deepen my knowledge by learning how these technical concepts are applied across different sectors and areas of the workplace. This experience highlights just how valuable hands-on industry exposure can be.”
Harry, Advanced Engineering Fitter Apprentice
“I’ve been given incredible opportunities to develop both my technical skills and my understanding of the wider defence industry. As someone with a longstanding
interest in the military and engineering, this apprenticeship immediately stood out to me. It offered the perfect balance between practical experience and professional development, and I can confidently say applying was one of the best decisions I’ve made.”
Interested?
Simply fill out the form below. Our Talent team review every application and will explain the next steps.
What we expect from you:
- GCSEs or equivalent in English and Maths
- A good, strong work ethic
- Willingness to undertake a selection process
Good luck!
