Distribution and plant apprentice. Review

Distribution and plant technician. We go to buildings and do basic maintenance such as clear vegetation and sweep the buildings. Occasionally we have tasks that are quite technical where we use our electrical knowledge, for example replacing heaters and lights.

My hand skills on the tools have improved.

I enjoy the work at depot but the studying is inadequate and unenjoyable

Network rail provide many other things outside of the working day which make you feel valued as an employee. Although it is ultimately down to how your manager treats you.

The course has changed since I have started and it is not clear what qualifications I will gain.

The training team for the apprenticeship are on hand to provide support all the time, but the support when you are at depot and trying to complete practical tasks can sometimes be limited.

Network rail has a good support structure once you are an employee however the rules and structure for apprentices is not the same and can be confusing leading to a lack of support.

The first years wage is £8000 which is incredibly hard to live on: it is not suntanstial. The salary increases to approximately £13k and £15k which is better but still not a great wage and being an independent person is just enough to live on.

There are no opportunities outside of work and even in work the opportunities are very limited.

Yes

The job is easy and is not challenging, so when you complete the course you will earn a good salary for an easy life.

Compare to other apprenticeships first and see what qualification you will come out with. If you decide on network rail then look at the discipline you will end up in because each discipline is vastly different.