The Bristol Port Company has announced a major milestone, as their first cohort of 16 apprentices have successfully completed the Duke of Edinburgh (DofE) Award alongside their port apprenticeship, the first initiative of its kind in the port sector.
Their achievements have paved the way for the second cohort of 13 apprentices, who are now progressing through the programme.
Each apprentice took on a combination of volunteering, skills development, physical challenges and residentials, with experiences ranging from welding courses and fitness training to expeditions in the UK and residentials as far as Norway and Thailand. Many also supported local communities, developed new hobbies and built confidence throughout the process.
Congratulations go to James Dorrel, Riley Drew, Lloyd Harvey, Michal Marzec, Rion Beech, Daniel Bateman, Mason Kingdon.
Nick Venn, Training Manager at Bristol Port said:
“Seeing our apprentices embrace the DofE Award with such commitment has been inspiring. This initiative is about far more than qualifications, it’s about building confidence, leadership, and the life skills that will carry them throughout their careers. We look forward to continuing this programme in 2026."
The new cohort will begin in February, delivered in partnership with Weston College. The collaboration will further strengthen the Port’s commitment to developing confident, skilled and resilient young professionals.
