Rating

6.4/10
  • 1. Please give an overview of your role and what this involves on a day-to-day basis:
  • Electronic Engineering apprentice - daily tasks include completing paperwork to make documentation of actions completed in work. Also do workshop work on various projects either creating circuits from scratch, or bug fixing and maintaining other circuits. Responsible for ensuring work is done on time and safely.

    6/10

  • 2. Have you learnt any new skills or developed existing skills?
  • I've learnt a lot about electronics between training and self taught sources, as well as format and function of paperwork for the work done and why it needs to be done. the apprenticeship has developed my personal, interpersonal and professional skills.

    8/10

  • 3. To what extent do you enjoy your programme?
  • The work is interesting and varied in type and complexity. The teams encountered make up a wide diversity of people and are all good to work with. there is a very accepting culture in the workplace. it surpasses most expectations from the first year.

    7/10

  • 4. How valued do you feel by Dstl?
  • DSTL offers reward for good work and appreciates those that push themselves, making it more of an incentive to be hard working. most of the recognition is internal but there is opportunity for external recognition. the tasks given are usually well involved and all input is valued regardless of role.

    7/10

  • 5. How well organised/structured is your programme?
  • It's as to be expected. very slow in the training phases but in the business is well organised and very well structured. The training is lacking though all support needed can be given. tasks are given out as a member of the team and are delegated as such. the mentor programme is good and is always accessible if needed.

    7/10

  • 6a. How much support do you receive from your training provider?
  • The tutors are good people and will support throughout. The programme is highly flawed leaving a lot of empty time followed by a crammed space of deadlines and exams. their attitude to support apprentices throughout is good and they do their best with the structure provided. It can be enjoyable but is far from perfect.

    5/10

  • 6b. How much support do you receive from your employer?
  • managers, mentors and all other departments are always happy to help, providing support where they can and being visible on case they are needed. I would have no hesitation going to any of them for advice or support if required, they are always happy to help

    9/10

  • 7. How well does your salary/package meet your costs?
  • First year salary struggled to make ends meet. second year isn't much better, with no major room for leisure or social after living and daily costs, including the commute. budgeting is required or a second job to make ends meet.

    4/10

  • 8. Are there many opportunities outside of work?
  • the company make a lot of opportunities for social events, encouraging people to get together, sports, meals etc. there are several opportunities for socialising and attending various events in the local area.

    5/10

  • 9. Would you recommend Dstl to a friend?
  • No


  • 9b. Why?
  • The difficulties encountered in living costs and the decline of the quality from the training provider means I would advise them to seek an apprenticeship elsewhere.


  • 10. What tips or advice would you give to others applying to Dstl?
  • The application process is thorough and formal, use foundation knowledge as an advantage. there are opportunities from the start of the application to get a strong footing, the competency tests can be a pain but at least put an answer down.


Details

Level 3 Apprenticeship

Engineering

South West

February 2018


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