Higher Engineering Apprentice Review

I have been aligned to the civil aerospace development sector of Rolls-Royce, which means working on the validation of new engine types through testing. Day to day work involves writing documents, specifying test and engine requirements, assisting tests and other more varied tasks.

As part of the apprenticeship I spent 9 months in workshop training learning skills including milling, turning, welding and drawing as well as completing electrical work and assembly operations. There are lots of opportunities to learn new skills and develop existing ones through training courses and also by assisting other employees and questioning them about their work.

The workshop training section of my apprenticeship was very enjoyable and the area of training changed frequently which helped keep things interesting and new. Now working in the business on longer 3 month placements enables me to gain a more in depth understanding of the company and to take on bigger tasks. Overall I enjoy the programme and there is always an opportunity to see and learn about interesting elements of the work here.

I have felt valued in all of the teams I have worked in during my business placements and have been thanked for my work when leaving each area, however I do not feel particularly valued by the company in general.

The programme is fairly well structured although the arrangement of placements in the business is a task to be completed by each apprentice, so the structure can be heavily influenced by the individual.

The company has a dedicated Learning & Development Centre which provides training and support for apprentices. Apprentices are aligned to an Apprentice Development Leader (ADL) who can be contacted with any issues, and apprentices have a periodic review with their ADL every 11 weeks.

(Same as training provider) The company has a dedicated Learning & Development Centre which provides training and support for apprentices. Apprentices are aligned to an Apprentice Development Leader (ADL) who can be contacted with any issues, and apprentices have a periodic review with their ADL every 11 weeks.

The apprentice salary is fair and I am able to live on my own in the city, as well as running a car and having a comfortable lifestyle. There are lots of benefits on offer as an employee of Rolls-Royce including discounts with many stores, and phone contract discounts.

There are lots of opportunities for training outside of work. In my scheme apprentices are sent to Derby College for a two year foundation degree followed by a 2 year degree at the University of Derby.

Yes

I've found the apprenticeship programme enjoyable and have learnt many new skills. The salary is competitive and the work is both enjoyable and interesting.

Prepare well for the interview and assessment day but do not be too nervous about the process. Have a genuine interest in engineering and talk about engineering hobbies you have experience in and are passionate about.