Escalator apprentice Review

Being on the escalator apprenticeship my daily tasks are reliant on the particular placement I am on, as each section has varied and diverse roles and tasks. Currently I am working with the condition based monitoring team and my job role involves gearbox oil sampling and analysis, vibration analysis and working closely with the department specialist on fault finding and rectification.

Having completed the level 3 BTEC in the first year I am currently working towards completing my EAL Level 3 NVQ Extended Diploma in Engineering Maintenance (QCF) - EMI: Escalator Repair and Service (Engineering Practices). Internal training include basic track awareness, general machine room training, safe systems of work on electrical systems, asbestos awareness and leptospiral jaundice awareness amongst others.

I couldn't be happier with the apprenticeship programme. I have as much support as I require from my apprentice manager [This section of the comment has been removed by a member of the RateMyApprenticeship Team because it did not meet our site terms and conditions], and from my placement co-ordinator and mentor [This section of the comment has been removed by a member of the RateMyApprenticeship Team because it did not meet our site terms and conditions]. The job itself is rewarding (although hard work), and the people I work with have all been not only knowledgeable and highly skilled, but also helpful and prepared to invest their own time and effort into assisting me develop into the best apprentice I can be.

Staff and management are regularly checking to see how my apprenticeship is progressing, offering help if it's needed and praising me on work completed so far. Despite having a fixed term contract I have been all but guaranteed a position when the apprenticeship is complete as long as the NVQ is complete and my work ethic remains at its current high standard.

Training courses are arranged for me but if I were to feel that any particular course would benefit me I can raise this in our monthly review which is attended by my apprentice manager and placement co-ordinator. Tasks are set to be completed by particular dates depending on their difficulty and how often they are likely to arise, with full support being given explaining how to complete them, what is required and any drawings, specifications or work instructions that will be necessary.

Support is available at any point, with regular meetings to assess my current situation and to give me the opportunity to ask for it. My onefile progress which relates to the NVQ, is checked to ensure I am on course to complete the qualification in the allotted time. Susan Perryman (my apprentice manager) has been constantly involved in my progression, offering help and advice including home and personal life, in order to help the process be completed as smoothly as possible. She has made the experience truly enjoyable.

Support is available at any point, with regular meetings to assess my current situation and to give me the opportunity to ask for it. In general my colleagues have provided me with the information required to complete the tasks set, but if any problems or issues were to arise [This section of the comment has been removed by a member of the RateMyApprenticeship Team because it did not meet our site terms and conditions] (my mentor) has been available (including out of work hours) to advise and assist me, for which I am incredibly grateful.

I am currently in the third year of my apprenticeship and with my nightshift premium I am earning more than I di at my last job which I was doing for nearly 10 years. Added to this I get free travel on Transport For London and a discount on train services not run by TFL. This has allowed me to move outside of London to purchase a house and be able to afford to travel into London and afford a reasonable mortgage.

Working for TFL you get company discounts on all sorts, ranging from gyms to restaurants. There are regular events arranged that we are invited to attend at schools and colleges to pass on our experiences of the apprenticeship to future school leavers. Company events are arranged on a formal basis such as the company Christmas party and on an informal basis with apprentice get togethers and section evenings out.

Yes

The job is incredibly rewarding, both personally and financially. Job security, and the generous final salary pension mean that once you get the job you won't be tempted to leave. This is along with the other bonuses previously mentioned. They are an organised and friendly bunch who all have a lot of knowledge and skill that they will gladly pass on to you.

Due to the high number of people applying there are certain requirements in regards to qualifications. Even if you haven't gained these at school I would suggest that you enrol on the equivalent adult learning course (functional skills etc)as there are no restrictions on age. Make sure you contribute to any group activities and if you aren't selected ask for any feedback and try to re-apply again the following year having addressed any faults you had.