2026 Manufacturing Apprentice - Cheadle

This is a 3. 5-year Manufacturing Apprenticeship based at Thales in Cheadle (Dolphin House, Ashurst Drive, Stockport, SK3 0XB). You will spend most of your time working on-site, rotating through manufacturing placements to develop practical skills such as assembly techniques, wiring and looming, soldering and ESD safety.

The role is full-time (37 hours per week, Monday-Thursday) and includes the provision of relevant equipment and software.

You will be enrolled with Trafford and Stockport College (day-release model). Year 1 focuses on college-led learning; Year 2 embeds on-site skills and continues academic study to complete a BTEC and NVQ; Year 3 offers wider departmental rotation and prepares you for the end point assessment (work-based project report and professional discussion).

On completion you will achieve a Level 3 apprenticeship qualification and a Level 3 Diploma in Engineering and Manufacturing Support Technologies.

The apprenticeship offers company benefits (annual leave, pension, healthcare cash plan, life insurance, employee discounts) and opportunities to move into a permanent manufacturing role in Cheadle after successful completion.