Higher Engineering Apprentice Review

by Rolls-Royce

Rating

9/10

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

I'm a Higher Engineering Apprentice. During the typical week I attend college for 1 day and am out in the business for the other 4. During the time in the business I am on various placements and carry out work on a range of things depending on the nature of the placement team.

9/10

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

Currently I am studying for a foundation degree and have also been part of numerous internal courses which have helped to give me new skills and to become more confident. Also we undertake an NVQ level 4, which is business based and will improve many skills.

8/10

3. To what extent do you enjoy your programme?

The program is really good as there is a great support network from my ADL and the placements are well planned and let you see a lot of different areas in the business. The company culture is interesting, as it is an international company you get exposed to many different working styles which work very well.

9/10

4. How valued do you feel by Rolls-Royce?

I would say that I feel valued within the company - despite being an apprentice, my thoughts on various project matters are always listened to and encouraged. Also my manager give me good and frequent feedback which allows me to make beneficial changes.

9/10

5. How well organised/structured is your programme?

I would say that the programme is well structured and planned.

8/10

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

The college supplies a good amount of support and the lectures are always easy to contact and are always happy to help where they can.

8/10

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

Lots of support. There support has helped me immensely since I started - if the support that they so willingly provide had not been there I would have struggled a lot during the last year and a half.

10/10

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

I have never had any financial difficulties since starting here.

10/10

8. Are there many opportunities outside of work?

At Rolls-Royce they have an Apprentice and Graduate Association which run a lot of social activities in the evening and on the weekends - some of which I have attended. There is a STEM volunteering programme that runs, which I am starting to get involved with. There is also a leisure centre that offers a gym and a variety of sporting options - I do not use this service as I am a member of a private gym and arrange sports things with the friends I have made since joining the company.

10/10

9. Would you recommend Rolls-Royce to a friend?

Yes

9b. Why?

It gives a great balance of working life and education. It so far has taught me a lot of things that I know I would never have learnt had I just gone to university!

10. What tips or advice would you give to others applying to Rolls-Royce?

Make sure you are fully prepared before the interview day - and as hard as it may seem don't panic because the assessors are all very friendly. Make the most of the introductory week - ask lots of questions!