Emergency Response Apprentice Review

If our customers need us, we’re there for them. Our Gas Emergency Service is on call to safeguard both life and property from gas leaks, responding to over 533,000 gas escapes each year. In addition the team also connects customers, provides metering services, replaces complex gas mains in our cities and maintains gas distribution above ground" -(http://careers.nationalgrid.com/apprentice-engineer-training-programmes/advanced-apprenticeship-programme/emergency-response/)

During my apprenticeship I have gained experienced of engineering and enjoy the aspect of hands on training. I have also undergone internal & external courses and assessments such as: COSSH, Confined spaces training, Asbestos training, First Aid & undergone in house assessments for my role. I have also learned how to deal with customers.

I enjoy the programme & the way it is set out. First 6 weeks is an icebreaker into the company, get to meet new people from all over the country. The team I work for is welcoming and everyone is there to give you a helping hand when you need it. Everyone coaches you as they know you'll be joining them on patch shortly. The company is a great to work.

Overall I feel very valued by National Grid. Praise is given when needed, line managers are always there to help you swell as everyone else in the team. Assessors are there to help you if you are struggling with anything. When doing assessments and you have done well you receive appraisal from your line manager and the assessors.

The induction was a goo insight into the company and was very well organised. The training is above what I expected on site and offsite. The support group you have from your line manager to mentors is very good. The only issue I have in regards to the programme is that sometimes accommodation is not booked for when it is needed to be resorting in us being moved around mid week whilst in hollinwood which could be resolved by booking accommodation weeks in advance.

Every 10 weeks we get reviewed so they know where we are in our training and offer advice. Mentor provided complete on the job training and is very insightful and experienced.

Line manager/Assessors are always there to support you when you need it. Mentor is the main person who looks after you and organises your training and does a very good job at it.

ABOVE, most apprenticeships are on a low wage until fully qualified whereas to start the apprenticeship I am on a decent wage which gradually climbs depending on if i meet target milestones. I pay nothing for travel costs as National Grid have provided me with a van and a fuel card and if i didn't have this they provided free of charge taxis and train tickets. I spend nothing in regards to living with national grid, i live at home when on site and when doing assessment/practical training in Hollinwood I am put up in a hotel all expense paid.

Yes, there re opportunities outside work. I myself have done careers fairs and volunteering in universities. We also have company engagement meetings where teams meet up for a meal ect. There is also many charity events that are held within national grid such as the walk around the isle of wight.

Yes

National Grid provides everything you need and more in an apprenticeship, It looks after its employers and gives you guidance and support throughout your career.

Try to stand out when applying on the application form, give good logical answers and evidence to support when answering competency based questions. Assessments days are bit daunting but you get to have a meal with your interviewer the night before to put you at ease for the interview.