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.

How far could you go?

Apprentice Flyer 2025
STS Defence Advanced Engineering Apprentice 2025 first page

Benefits

Portsmouth Harbour aerial image

Based on Gosport’s waterfront, in the heart of historic Portsmouth Harbour, we are five minutes walk from the ferry terminal, the bus station and the high street.

STS Defence manufacturing apprentice and staff

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.

A male STS Defence apprentice stood against a pale wall, facing the camera.

As an apprentice, you will benefit from a wide range of benefits, starting with a salary well above the National Apprenticeship Wage (a minimum of £15,873 in the first year), and increasing each year with progression.

STS Defence Advanced Engineering apprentice welding

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.

A male STS Defence apprentice stood against a pale wall, facing the camera.

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.

A female STS Defence apprentice stood against a pale wall, facing the camera.

On completion of training, apprentices are offered full time roles within the company.

Meet some of our apprentices…

Connor, Advanced Engineering Apprentice

“As an apprentice, I now have the unique opportunity to work alongside industry professionals who are experts in their fields, contributing to real-world projects and learning from their wealth of experience. This exposure not only enhances my technical skills but also allows me to establish connections that will be invaluable throughout my career.”

STS Defence male apprentice facing the camera with his arms folded against a white wall

Katie, Advanced Engineering Apprentice

“I’ve enjoyed the apprenticeship so far and I’m sure I will continue to enjoy it as I learn new skills which I can continue to improve on, some things have been challenging to learn but with more practice I will come more confident. The training I receive makes the topics I learn about in college easier to understand as I can see how it links to work.”

STS Defence female apprentice against a white wall looking at the camera

Ben, Apprentice Buyer

“My time at STS Defence so far has been challenging yet rewarding! I am always learning something new, and challenged to be the best I can be. Because my role involves a large range of commodities, I’m interacting with new people – sharing the company’s vision and demonstrating values which are integral to the future of both my career and company growth.”

STS Defence male apprentice buyer against a white wall looking at the camera

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!

A female STS Defence apprentice against a pale wall, smiling at the camera.

Opportunities for work, apprentices and graduates

View our Vacancies