Degree Apprentice Review

My job role revolves around software/system engineering. I can be expected to complete any activity along the system V-Model. This has lead me to completing the following; writing standard documentation, writing pseudocode requirements, producing whole software models in Matlab Simulink/Stateflow and completing MIL testing (model in the loop). Plus, battery testing.

Yes. The majority of the skills I have learnt come from on the job training. These include; learning basic python code to write software test cases, learning how to write effective software requirements, how to develop software models within Simulink/Stateflow and then how to utilise simulink test to perform MIL testing.

Everything to do with my job role; working at plant, is enjoyable and more importantly rewarding. University has become more enjoyable as I have entered the final two years where we are able to choose the modules we are going to take. Everything else is not. College was a tick box exercise and the HR management of the scheme is laughable.

This question is dependent on your department. When I entered the apprenticeship my department had no clue what they were meant to do with an apprentice. This has been corrected as the years on the apprenticeship went on. University is well organised mainly because it is a private entity not manipulated by the desires of the apprenticeship scheme. As I previously said, college is laughable. This point extends in to its structure.

I am provided with all the support I am required by my department and my work based learning manager. They work with me rather than against. So far, this point has extended in to University with multiple tutors being more than willing to give support and genuinely wish for your development. Beyond this, I have learnt not to expect any further support from the apprenticeship scheme.

As I mentioned previously, the University is more than willing to support. They have even gone out of the way to offer beginner maths and IT lessons. My department is more than accepting of busy assignment schedules, often allowing me some time at work to complete. However, this varies from department to department.

Simply out, it doesn't. I have not utilised any knowledge gained from my qualifications in my job role. In fact its the very opposite. I seem to be using more of the knowledge that I naturally gained at work to complete assignments given by the university and at the college.

You are able to join any of the societies offered by the University, but this is only available to you when you are in the 3rd-6th year. Plus, the University does not actively tell you how to join or about the societies fairs, so if you are interested you will have to look for yourself.

Yes

Overall, the reward of completing the apprenticeship is worth the negatives as long as you are willing to work for it. The fact that you are paid a decent salary, gain qualifications (even if they are useless) and work experiences gives you an edge over many individuals who followed a more traditional route.

As long as you meet the minimum requirements, the apprenticeship does not care about qualifications. Work more on trying to develop and then showcase what is called soft skills; team working etc. These skills coupled with drive is what the apprentice is looking for. Possible knowledge on the business and direction of automotive industry wouldn't go a miss either.