Rating

7.8/10
  • 1. Please give an overview of your role and what this involves on a day-to-day basis:
  • Electrical Engineer. Days are a mix of both theory and practical with basic handskills projects in the workshop and electrical projects in the lab. There are lessons on CAD, and every project has an extensive write-up. Once all projects have been completed there is free reign, within reason, on any electrical project of your choice.

    8/10

  • 2. Have you learnt any new skills or developed existing skills?
  • I came onto the apprenticeship with very little knowledge of electronics, but the course is designed to accommodate everyone. As well as learning all the electrical theory, the lessons on handskills build up general engineering competence.

    8/10

  • 3. To what extent do you enjoy your programme?
  • I find the mix of theory and practical very enjoyable, as it gives you the opportunity to put into practice things that have been learnt in the classroom. the tutors are all very welcoming and approachable which makes asking questions easy when you don't understand. I am enjoying the programme and the people who are on the course with me, we are all from varied backgrounds but all share an interest in engineering. The course has met my expectations and I have learnt many new skills.

    8/10

  • 4. How valued do you feel by Dstl?
  • Although the training does not take place on a DSTL site, I have never felt like the company doesn't value me. my line managers regularly come and visit the training centre, and will be happy to answer any questions or queries. the CEO of the company has been and had a chat with us, and has a real interest in what the apprentices do. If we have any issues when are line managers are not around, there are only an email or phone call away, and are very prompt in replying.

    9/10

  • 5. How well organised/structured is your programme?
  • The programme is very well structured and organised, with us being able to access a timetable for several weeks ahead at any point. Any meetings with tutors or staff is organised through Outlook, so reminders will pop up when the meetings are due. all of the general inductions was squeezed into 1 week, which was a bit of an overload, but allowed us to quickly get on with learning. the training is broken into sections, with most sections finishing with an exam, or assessed piece. This is good as it gives you a goal to work towards. There is support for all aspects, with tutors being on hand to ask questions at any point, either face to face or via email. Time is built in to the weekly timetable to allow studying time, or to catch up on any write ups. although the staff are there to teach us, they feel like colleagues and there is no feeling of being looked down on.

    7/10

  • 6a. How much support do you receive from your training provider?
  • There is a large amount of support available from the training provider. Tutors are always happy to answer any questions, and will respond promptly to emails or returning work that has been marked. support is always available for non academic areas as well, with a safeguarding team on hand and advice on dealing with landlords or any other issues that may arise out of work.

    8/10

  • 6b. How much support do you receive from your employer?
  • There is a large amount of support available from the employer, with my line manager always happy to answer questions and give any guidance. This is especially notable when thinking into the future about placements or potential future jobs, as they will always try and get you into an area which interests you. the HR team I have only had to use before starting, but they were always prompt to reply to emails and always very helpful.

    9/10

  • 7. How well does your salary/package meet your costs?
  • the salary I am on is reasonable, and I never find myself struggling for money. However I do still live at home and only have a short commute, so I have very low rent and fuel costs. I feel it may get tight if I were to move out, and have to pay more for food and rent. On the plus side, the job does come with the perk of a Defence Discount card and an NUS Apprentice card, which provide discounts on purchases at a massive range of places.

    6/10

  • 8. Are there many opportunities outside of work?
  • outside of work there are some opportunities, with the training provider paying for occasional experiences such as go-karting or meals out. This is a good way to get to meet new people. every Wednesday is enrichment afternoon, which allows us time to do something totally different that is not on the curriculum for the apprenticeship. On site is a fully equipped gym, which can be used for a discounted price compared to civilian gym.

    7/10

  • 9. Would you recommend Dstl to a friend?
  • Yes


  • 9b. Why?
  • The company will always do the best to meet the needs and requirements of employees, and values everyone, regardless of pay grade or job title.


  • 10. What tips or advice would you give to others applying to Dstl?
  • having a basic competent engineering understanding may help during the interview and assessment process, e.g. maths. Always be yourself, as the company are after something unique in everyone so have no specific perfect employee. When going for assessment and interview I advise wearing a suit to make a good first impression.


Details

Level 3 Apprenticeship

Engineering

South West

April 2017


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