Manufacturing Engineering Higher Apprentice Review

As a first year apprentice, two weeks out of there are spent learning new skills, such as milling, turning and welding. The other week is spent at college studying towards a foundation degree in integrated engineering.

I have learned many new machining skills such as milling and turning as well as other practical skills such as wiring and testing circuits. Other courses have included project management and business improvement.

I thoroughly enjoy the programme. I get to work as part of a team in many instances where everyone is fully supportive of each other. The apprenticeship has definitely met my expectations.

Since I am only based in a training environment, it is difficult to gauge how valued I am by the company as a whole. However, all of the training and support provided by the company makes me feel like I am valued by the company.

The programme is structured very well with dedicated times for specific things. It is very clear what I will be doing throughout the first year of my apprenticeship. However, the organisation could have been better at the beginning of the apprenticeship as training courses would often be sprung upon us with very little warning.

Support is always available and it is always easy to seek advice from the training staff at the LDC. Guidance with problems is always easy to obtain either via email or face to face.

The employer does provide support, although it can often be hard to access, particularly with HR Online. I believe it would just be easier to speak to a HR representative. My manager is always willing to provide support when I ask.

My salary meets my living and travel costs. However, it doesn't leave much left at the end of the month so it is difficult to save. It is particularly difficult for first month when there are extra costs involved.

The company has an apprentice and graduate association for outside events, as well as a company gym and leisure facility. However, I do not use these.

Yes

You are provided with a lot of support from instructors and are working for a very reputable company. The training provided is also second to none.

Ensure to properly prepare for the assessment day as it is challenging and long. Ensure to answer questions in the online application form truthfully.