Apprentice Product Development Engineer Review

by JLR

Best Apprenticeship Employer

Rating

6.7/10

1. Please give an overview of your role and what this involves on a day-to-day basis:

Currently spending most of my time at college as a student learning various subjects towards a Foundation Degree. During college holidays I am in plant, working in Product Analysis and Verification. I am a part of a team that designs rigs for testing components from a rig for a fuel filter to a full car rig. I enjoy doing my job, but the placements in work are too limited in length.

7/10

2. Have you learnt any new skills or developed existing skills?

I have learned a great deal in terms of work presentation from the ASSET module and the practical workshop tasks have taught me a number of new skills. There are also plans to put me on an external CATIA training course.

8/10

3. To what extent do you enjoy your programme?

When in plant, yes; but as mentioned I am not given enough time in plant.

5/10

4. How valued do you feel by JLR?

Being the only apprentice in my department I feel valued in my immediate surroundings although I have no illusions that to the company management as a whole my position is insignificant.

6/10

5. How well organised/structured is your programme?

The full programme has a solid general structure, but due to inertia between the company and the college the college aspect of my apprenticeship feels poorly organised

4/10

6a. How much support do you receive from your training provider?

The college offers a number of extra tutorials for mathematics that I have been making good use of.

9/10

6b. How much support do you receive from your employer?

I am issued with a Work-Based Learning Manager who helps me with any problems I may face in my company aspect.

9/10

7. How well does your salary/package meet your costs?

My salary adequately covers my monthly costs, but does not currently give me the opportunity to save as much money as I would like. Rented properties close to the college and the plant are very expensive, as such I am forced to share with others.

6/10

8. Are there many opportunities outside of work?

Most of the opportunities outside of work involve socialising with other apprentices and employees, we are yet to be told about company activities.

6/10

9. Would you recommend JLR to a friend?

Yes

9b. Why?

I left university for this and it's the best decision I've ever made.

10. What tips or advice would you give to others applying to JLR?

When in the company, take every opportunity given to you. At interviews show enthusiasm.