Karen Lyall, RNLI’s apprenticeship lead, said the charity had seen an increase in the number of people coming through the apprenticeship route.
“We are seeing all ages make enquiries,” she said.
“When we go to careers events, it’s young people, parents and also older people enquiring about apprenticeships.
“There’s no pathway that fits everybody so it’s really something you need to do your research on.
“Apprenticeships are a long-term investment.
“Whether you are leaving school or you’ve been to university, it’s an opportunity for people to earn while they are learning.”
McKay said: “Having some hands-on experience is such a valuable asset.
“I’m a little bit on the older side as an apprentice because normally they are aimed at people who have left school.
“I want to show people that if you’ve been in the working world for a little bit, if you want to reskill or requalify, then an apprenticeship is also for you.”