Technical Apprentice Review

I am a technical apprentice at selex ES, a Finmeccanica company. My daily tasks involve working with senior engineers in various roles, such as testing equipment or components.

I have gained a PEO level 2 qualification, this involved learning basic engineering skills and requirements. I am currently studying a HND in Engineering Systems at college on day release. I have learned various new skills in the workplace through carrying out tasks and have completed various mini courses relative to my department.

I enjoy the programme but feel it could be improved. The company gave some expectations which it didnt meet, this was disappointing but the good working environment compensates for this.

Yes, as a lot of current employees have came through the apprenticeship scheme they know how important we are to the company. You are not looked down on by anyone and dont at anytime feel like youre not important.

THe programme has a good structure to it. You firstly go to college for 4-5 months to complete the PEO. Then you come into the workplace on a 3 month rotational placement plan. This continues for 3 years. There are some aspects of the programme that couldve been organised/communicated better.

Appropriatte help was recieved from the training provider if needed. This included any college work or log books in the PEO. Also some of the staff at the college guided us on our knowledge questions.

We can recieve any additional support with college work if required and your on site SVQ level 3 log books. All apprentices will help with logs or any college work if you need assistance.

The salary is rewardable and covers more than enough of the costs. However the salary has stayed the same for several years so this could be looked into.

There are various charity events that you can take part in. Various nights out are also organised within the apprentices. You can also voulenteer to help with variuous events within the company.

Yes

The qualifications and skills gained are very benificial, as is the prospect of gaining a degree in the company. The salary is good for an apprentice and the working environment is great.

The company looks for enthusiastic and committed people, so try to show this in the interview. Make sure you research some of the various departments also before applying, to give yourself an idea of what you might find yourself doing.