Mechanical and electrical engineer Review

by Thames Water

Best Apprenticeship Employer

Rating

10/10

1. Please give an overview of your role and what this involves on a day-to-day basis:

I’m at college full time at the moment. It’s challenging being back in education but it’s something I’m enjoying. Thursday is the level 3 day where we are in the classroom all day. The other days are spent in the workshop. When back on site I shadow my mentor and learn from him.

10/10

2. Have you learnt any new skills or developed existing skills?

While on the course i Have learnt many new skills. I’m much more tool proficient now, and that’s one of the main skills I’ve improved and am happy about. I’ve also learnt the basics of electrical circuits and wiring, which has been very interesting to learn about.

10/10

3. To what extent do you enjoy your programme?

I enjoy going to college each day and learning something new. I feel supported by the tutors there and my colleagues are fun to work with. Being an older apprentice I find being back in the classroom challenging but it’s something I love. I also enjoy my time back on site learning what I will do when qualified.

10/10

4. How well organised/structured is your programme?

The program is well structured, the HR team kept me informed of everything before I joined the college. Then at the college from day 1 the schedule for the year was laid out clearly. At college there is regular feedback from tutors where we are informedof the deadlines we are expected to meet.

10/10

5. How much support do you receive from your employer?

My line manager has said if there is anything I need to speak to him and has been very approachable. I company pays my expenses for my travel which is a big help as a London travel card is very expensive. My employer has also laid for text books that I need.

10/10

6. How much support do you receive from your training provider when working towards your qualifications?

There has not been much contact with the training provider as we are in our first year. Activate have come in to check how we are doing and tell us how the second year will go. When activate came in the college they did ask if there was any problems there they could fix.

10/10

7. How well do you feel that your qualification (through your training provider) helps you to perform better in your role?

Activate and Thames have worked together to make a course that when an apprentice finishes he or she will be capable of doing there job. All the courses we do through the training provider help us become better at our job. From using new tools in the workshop to learning in the classroom.

10/10

8. Are there extra-curricular activities to get involved in at your work? (For example, any social activities, sports teams, or even professional networking events.)

I went to a Christmas party at a local pub with the people from my site. The food was paid for and there was money behind the bar. It was good to see everyone outside of work and speak to people about stuff other than work. It was a good night and look forward to next years.

10/10

9a. Would you recommend Thames Water to a friend?

Yes

9b. Why?

I already have recommended Thames and I have a friend who has a medical to join the apprentice scheme. I recommend it because I think an apprenticeship is a great way to learn and get paid at the same time. When I finish I will have a good qualification to help me succeed.

10. What tips or advice would you give to others applying to Thames Water?

The first year at college goes really quickly so make sure you stay on top of work and do get write ups as you finish the job, as can be tricky to remember after a few weeks. I would also suggest you can never take enough notes when In lectures as they are handy to look back on.