A Portland apprentice is among a new generation of marine engineers and boat builders.

Jake Ryan, 16, is one of an elite group to join a new marine technology centre backed by Sunseeker International and created this year at Bournemouth and Poole College.

Jake is currently going through a rigorous ‘bootcamp’ process, learning the basic safety skills and workshop etiquette for a four year marine engineering apprenticeship with Manor Marine in Portland.

Jake said: “It is really exciting to be part of the first group to join the new centre. I will be learning from some of the best teachers.”

Once through his induction he will be learning a wide range of engineering skills needed to build a successful career in the marine sector.

The college has invested £250,000 in the new Marine Technology Centre, which opened in September. There are 70 places for Sunseeker learners and spaces for a total of 250 students.

Sunseeker training manager Alex Bowman said: “If we are to continue to compete in a global market, our workforce needs to be higher skilled than our competitors – it’s as simple as that.”

College principal Lawrence Vincent said: “Moving into marine engineering is a natural extension of the college’s core areas of expertise.”