Engineering Higher Apprentice Review

I am an Engineering higher apprentice. I have completed a foundation degree in Aerospace Computer Systems and am now working towards a BEng in Electrical and Electronic Engineering. I work 4 days a week and go to university one day a week. I do rotations around the business in order to gain experience in various engineering roles. I work alongside experienced engineers and interact with management regularly. Higher Apprentices are seen as equals to other employees (Rather than the usual apprentice stigma). Projects are extremely varied from power systems to displays (details cannot be included due to legal requirements).

Completed: FdSc Aerospace Computer Systems NVQ L4 Engineering Leadership ILM L2 in Leadership DofE Gold Award Ongoing: BEng in Electrical and Electronic Engineering I have learnt a tremendous amount about electronics, programming, electrical design, the business, leadership skills, team working skills, people skills, giving presentations

It is an intellectually stimulating and rewarding programme where I have learnt more than I could have expected. I have met some great people on the way and developed some fantastic relationships. The day to day work is rewarding. The company's culture is very strong and you learn about its beliefs from day one. I have enjoyed it from the very start and I am still enjoying it now!

GE really makes the higher apprentices feel valued. Regular meetings with your manager giving you feedback let you know current performance and areas for improvement. Internally awards are given to outstanding contributors and externally there are national awards for GE employees. On a project you will get tasks which are vital to project completion but at the same time are assisted as they know you are in training. I definitely feel valued at GE!

The progromme has been tailored to get the best out of the higher apprentices.

The support received from the training provider is very good. The lecturers are very good and able to take time out to help anyone with a problem. Extra tuition is readily available and they are happy to help.

We are provided with academic mentor, pastoral mentor and a 'buddy' higher apprentice in the year above. They are happy to help in any way possible. The manager is also very open to discussion and will help you however they can. The HR team is there if required.

Yes my costs are met with my salary.

There are numerous different opportunities outside of work. There are weekly sports clubs such as 5-a-side, various different trips organised by the company such as shopping in London. 100s of volunteering opportunities from working at the Cheltenham Science festival to mentoring in schools. The location is just outside of Cheltenham meaning it is perfect for going into the town without the hassle of the traffic etc.

Yes

It is one of the largest companies in the world where the opportunities are limitless. Enough said.

Application process: Be thorough with your CV and cover letter. The cover letter will make or break it so spend a lot of time getting it right! Interviews/Assessment: Group interviews to start where you will discuss an engineering task and be assessed for your team working / ideas. You will then have an individual interview were you will be asked more questions.