Meet Ellis Mitcheson, Port Operative Apprentice at Port of Blyth!
10 February 2026
As part of National Apprenticeship Week, we asked Ellis Mitcheson some questions about his role, since undertaking a Port Operative Apprenticeship with Port of Blyth.
- Why did you choose to do a Level 2 Port Operative Apprenticeship with the Port of Blyth?
I saw this apprenticeship as an opportunity to help start my career within a reputable and high achieving business. This apprenticeship has supported me with its in-depth training programme and talented instructors, helping me to improve my skill set in the workplace. I have thoroughly appreciated working every day within a professional and welcoming environment.
- What does your role involve?
My day-to-day role at the Port of Blyth consists of loading and unloading goods using specific plant machinery. This typically includes loading wagons and unloading containers following off a vessel. I am given regular training by Port Training Services, gaining new plant licenses, knowledge, and confidence through the use of courses and time spent with instructors.
- What were you doing before you started your apprenticeship?
Prior to this apprenticeship, I was working for a welding and fabrication company. As part of working there, we did lots of work down south at the HM Naval Base at Portsmouth Port. This gave me an understanding of what working in a Port environment is like and it gave me an interest in pursuing a role in a similar environment back at home. The Port of Blyth has always stood out to me as a workplace I wanted to be part of, and being given this opportunity has opened a lot of doors for me.
- Would you recommend working in the Port sector?
I would definitely recommend working in the Port sector, as it provides a long-term sustainable career that is always progressing.
If you’re an employer in the port industry looking to train an apprentice, find out more about the Level 2 Port Operative Apprenticeship course we offer at Port Training Services: Level 2 Port Operative Apprenticeship – Port Training Services