Engineering apprentice Review

Shadow engineers on day to day tasks to gain an understanding of how things work and why they go wrong and how to fix them and getting involved with small projects like fixing leaks to save water consumption, making brackets and plates. Studying material science, maths, making components, QA, maintenance compliance.

Yes, machining I can now use the lathe and milling machine to create components. I have also learnt basic fitting skills that I have been able to use in the workplace. I have learnt how to use a 3D printer. My welding has improved, mig and tig. I have gained more of an understanding of the process of my factory.

I enjoy going to work, everyday is different and there is always new things to learn. I enjoy the practical days at college as there is a real sense of achievement when i have done. There have been some teething problems with the courses delivery and organisation but has improved alot since the start of the year.

At the start of the year there was no organisation. I had to keep chasing college for a start date, it took weeks to get an ID badge and computer login. The timetable has changed alot! No resources or practice papers so lecturers teaching blind not knowing what will be in the exams. Sent home early alot in the beginning as there was no lessons planned.

If I have a problem I know I can discuss it with rather my manager, he or my mentor. I have been allowed to move my days so I can work on the engineering maintenance days so I can experience general maintenance, rather then just breakdowns. My buddy engineers helps me with my college work if there something I don't understand. Don't have my monthly reviews.

The college have listened to our concerns and have had meetings with us to improve the lectures and the structure. They have also had meetings with our employers to make sure the course is structured and organised for us. They have gave us different lecturers with different teaching styles to help us gain the knowledge needed to help pass our exams. Our workshop teacher goes above and beyond not only in his class but listens to our concerns from other lessons and has helped to get these needed changes implemented.

It has gave me a better understanding of the workplace and why procedures are in place like ear defenders and safety guards. Why QA do the ph tests. Also why certain materials are used for example stainless steel as it don't rust and it is robust and can be chemically cleaned without absorbing the chemicals.

I am in the SEF team. This team organises fundraising events for charity like cakebake sales, raffles, sponserd walks and carwashes. It also organises events for the employees to keep them happy like compititions, BBQ, christmas partys and halloween party's and making picnic areas at work. Not sure if there is any others.

Yes

It is a fair payed company that will support you to grow and progress in, if you wish to gain qualifications or train in management. It can be a nice place to be if you have a good team to work with and support you. They have speakers so you can work to music.

Learn the company values and try to stand by them and apply them in your work, be positive and understanding of all. Always try to be positive for you and your team. Always ask managers or training, if you would like any training or to progress. Try out the staff shop!