Engineering research advanced apprentice Review

Currently based at Warwick trident college. The day starts at 8am and finishes at 4:45. We have 45 minutes for lunch, then either 3x15min breaks or 2x20min breaks depending on if you are in classrooms or workshop. Lessons are in 3 week blocks. 3 weeks in class room, then 2 3 week blocks in workshop. In class room we are taught and have assignments set. In workshop we have practical assessments to complete.

Over the little time I have been an apprentice i have learned numerous invaluable skills. The classroom supplies all students with good in depth knowledge and teaches the skills required to complete assignments (such as independent research and essay writing). The workshop allows you to develop practical skills that will be essential for the workplace enviroment

Being in college is probably the only negative issue. It is just a college. However being in plan makes it all worthwhile, the weeks I have spent there have been fantastic, I have learnt so much, and I can not wait to work their even more in the following years. There are many perks to the program, good holiday, pay, and discounts from various companies.

JLR obviously care a great deal about their apprentices, and everything they do is a clear indicator. The level of support they provide is brilliant and beneficial to both the apprentices and the company. However, there is favouritism towards the Degree Apprenticeship by some members of management. When in plant we are involved with lots of exciting projects, and I feel like my input was valued/

Organisation does let the apprenticeship down. There are many errors in communication that need to be resolved. At the start there was lots of confusion and information missing, which still occurs months into the apprenticeship. Payslips often arrive late if at all. Getting definitive decisions is difficult. But that is probably due to the large volume of apprentices.

All the trainers and tutors want everyone to succeed. They are supportive and willing to go through things multiple times until it is right. There are multiple people who can provide support and guidance. Meeting are held regularly, to ensure we are on track. The program is designed to support us and allow us to achieve our potential.

In the workplace there is so much support. My manager is very supportive and interested in our apprenticeship. If there were any issues they would certainly help when possible. They offer advice when in plant, that is beneficial to not only plant but also when in college. There general attitude towards us is very positive.

The pay is overall very good, considering other apprenticeship programs. as long as you meet all targets you will get a pay rise every 6 months. However when at plant I have to pay for parking, for normal employees it is possible to claim it back, but as an apprentice I do not have to ability to claim it back. Also the costs in the college are expensive, however this is not JLR's responsibility so have little controll.

There doesn't seem to be many opportunities outside of work, that or we haven't been informed of them. The only opportunity I am aware of is ELS (employee learning scheme) which provides money to learn a new skill or take up a new hobby. More opportunity would be beneficial, or make the apprentices more aware of existing opportunities.

Yes

It has given me an amazing opportunity to learn and earn. The skills I have will allow me to progress in a future career hopefully with JLR. there are so many opportunity for us to progress. The pay is good, and they genuinely care about their employees as people. It is a global company that allows employees the freedom to improve themselves and the company.

Be yourself. The first year is the worse, but just get though it. All departments are really good (so don't worry if you get something other than his top choice). The interviews are full on, but they want to make sure you are a good fit. If there are issues, go and get help, don't struggle on your own. Get involved Introduce yourself to everyone you meet.