MentorShip
“Participating in the Shipwrights Mentorship Scheme has been instrumental in shaping my career. Under the guidance of my mentor, I received unparalleled support that extended beyond my academic journey. His insight and feedback, particularly on my dissertation, were invaluable, ultimately playing a crucial role in my achieving a first-class degree. The regular weekly or biweekly calls provided a consistent source of guidance, helping me navigate both my personal and professional growth. My mentor was a steadfast support throughout my university life, and I couldn't recommend the Scheme enough for anyone looking to build a strong foundation for their career. It offers the kind of tailored guidance that helps you grow and succeed, no matter the industry you choose.”
BSc Hons Maritime Business
Trainee Shipbroker
MentorShip is the mentoring scheme of the Worshipful Company of Shipwrights. It provides up to 30 selected university students with the opportunity to be mentored by knowledgeable and experienced maritime professionals during their university life and as they transition towards the world of work.
Through a process of informal and voluntary mentoring, MentorShip affords students access to:
- Industry knowledge and experience (general and specific).
- Professional insight, career guidance and advice.
- Business and social networking, encouragement and support.
Through MentorShip, students are also introduced to the Worshipful Company of Shipwrights and its Aims.
Shipwright Mentors
Shipwright Mentors are drawn from a wide-cross section of the maritime industry; their knowledge and experience is extensive.
The role of a Shipwright Mentor is to support and encourage the growth of their mentee’s knowledge and skill, with the aim of helping the mentee achieve their goals.
Applying for MentorShip
The Shipwrights’ Company offers up to 30 places a year on MentorShip.
We accept applications from undergraduates in academic year 2 or 3 of a Bachelor’s degree, and postgraduates on a 1-year full time Master’s degree. Students should note that the quality of the application determines their selection or otherwise! Every effort is made to pair mentees with the most suitable mentor and applicants must understand that this may not be a person from the specific sector of maritime requested. However, it will be a Shipwright with great experience and the ability to challenge and broaden their mentee's horizons and aspirations.
Academic Year 2026-28
The window for applications opens on 1 October and closes on 31 October 2026 (the deadline).
With only 30 places available the quality of a student's completed application form determines their selection. Applicants are urged to provide as much relevant detail as possible to assist the MentorShip committee in understanding applicants’ personal and maritime interests, their career aspirations and, crucially, why they are applying to be mentored. AI generated forms lack individuality and can be spotted!
Applications will be considered shortly after the deadline and mentor/mentee pairings selected. The mentoring relationship begins once both prospective mentor and mentee have agreed to be paired together. Mentors and mentees can bring an unsatisfactory pairing to a close and non-participation or failure to communicate may also lead to a pairing being ended prematurely.
Two reports are required each year from mentors and mentees:
- 1 Feb annually – Half Term reports.
- 15 Jun annually – Final Report.
Application Form, Guides & Resources.
Participating Universities 2026-2028.
- City University, London
- Liverpool John Moores University
- Newcastle University
- Plymouth University
- The University of Southampton
- Southampton Solent University
- The University of Strathclyde
