Technical Operator (Apprentice) Review

The BOA scheme involves all aspects of technical work in broadcasting, from gallery work such as vision mixing, sound mixing and directing, to being out on the road filming news packages and editing etc. We work closely with editorial staff, as well as engineers to bridge the gap between the creative and the technical. We often work in a live environment, and every day brings new challenges.

The technical knowledge gained is fantastic, I have worked across a range of hardware and software and now have a great understanding of broadcast workflows, and am able to work efficiently and successfully. Work is enjoyable, as it is measurable and easy to see how far you have come, e.g. by the quality of footage you film/edit, and feedback is mostly constructive and valuable.

The atmosphere and prestige associated with working for the BBC makes the course highly enjoyable while at placements. Colleagues are professional and friendly, and there is a fantastic, open and encouraging culture at the company. The work we do can be high-pressured but is also extremely fun, as each job brings something new, and the range of events we get involved in provides a lot of interest.

Apprentices are made to feel extremely valued, and if the effort is put in, they will be given responsibility and permitted to be fully involved.

Placements are well organised, however due to budgets and errors on the part of the college, we have experienced some issues, and there could be improvement in the overall structure.

There is not a whole lot of fantastic support from the college. The slack has had to be picked up by the BBC and this has been an unwelcome negative in an otherwise valuable and enjoyable course.

The BBC provides a great level of personal support and employees and apprentices are made aware of who to contact with queries and concerns, and are made to feel comfortable in voicing these.

The salary for our apprenticeship is reasonable and above others in the industry. Those in London receive assistance in line with the higher cost of living and i've mostly managed well, and the BBC cover lots of the operationally-essential costs we incur.

The networking we are able to do and contacts that our work opens us up to opens doors to take part in other events and programmes, and we are encouraged to get involved as much as possible in as wide a range of things as possible.

Yes

I've thoroughly enjoyed my course so far, despite some issues with college. I have been shortlisted for full time vacancies in the company and overall i think it is a great place to work and a fantastic example of a high quality broadcaster.

Be natural! The BBC looks for enthusiasm and flair, as well as technical skill. Interviews are relaxed and comfortable, but hard work and talent are also highly valued. Have an open mind and be prepared to say YES to new opportunities, even if not exactly what you want to do, as this will go down well and show enthusiasm.