Engineering Degree apprentice Review

On a daily basis I can be expected to work at either the Gaydon or Whitley manufacturing sites depending on the project. Within my first 2 years I have received 'clever' CAD training and became an AVA creator. I work with many different sectors including the new battery concept group where we design new battery vehicles. One day I can be building battery CAD models and then the next I will go to see the models come to life being manufactured by the supplier.

Strong problem solving skills is crucial when building CAD models, these skills are strengthened with maths and physics modules at University on weekly block release. At university I have lectures in the morning and then tutorials in the afternoon which are helpful when revising for module assignments and tests. On the manufacturing pathway I have learnt on-hand manufacturing techniques such as milling and turning, I used a state of the art CNC machine (the same used by suppliers) which helped me to gain an appreciation of how design affects manufacturability.

The programme is challenging but rewarding, time management skills are crucial. Achieving a good work/life balance is important, since you are considered as a full Warwick university student, you can take advantage of the brand new sports and wellness hub which features an indoor climbing gym for both bouldering and line climbing. You're university pass also allows you to get involved with the societies at the university which is a great way to meet new people and socialise.

The programme is very well structured, you have personal Work based managers who are employed by Jaguar Land Rover (JLR) to answer any of your questions or queries acting as a mentor throughout of your apprenticeship. JLR work closely with the university to ensure you learn the most useful modules that will also help with your project work back at plant.

As mentioned previously, work based managers are very helpful and are non-biased which allows you to talk in confidence with them about any issues you are dealing with on the apprenticeship. The week before I am expected to hand in assignments or revise for upcoming tests at university, managers are very supportive with giving you time to complete uni work at work.

Warwick university are the training providers for your engineering degree and are supportive and are happy to reply to emails regarding module questions. JLR have their own training providers on plant for many different CAD courses as well as health and safety courses which are very informative and willing to help.

The modules delivered at Warwick are targeted at the automotive industry which really helps with the work back at JLR. These modules don't only consist of standard engineering degree content, but also business modules that help with understanding how the engineering industry works both at JLR and the wider the engineering environment.

On a Monday I play 5-a-side football with the powertrain commodity which is a great way to keep fit and network. There are gyms onsite at both Whitely and Gaydon as well as great facilities for runners and cyclers commuting to work. Being apart of the university also allows you to get involved in the nightlife on campus including bars, clubs and even an onsite arcade.

Yes

The degree apprenticeship at JLR is a great way to learn and study towards your degree as well as building up work experience in the automotive industry, whilst getting paid. The salary at JLR is very competitive, every 6 months you can expect to receive the 'rate for stage' which is a pay rise if you meet the expectations of passing all of your university modules.

Getting offered a position on the JLR apprenticeship is very competitive, working hard to receive the best possible A-level results for yourself is a big help. If you are successful with the first stage of applying with the online testing, then remember to be yourself and not to be boastful on the interview day as JLR looks for motivated, aspiring engineers who work well in a team.