2019 Apprentice Review

As a year one apprentice, we are required to complete competancy training at James Watt College. We are present at the college all week where we complete practical work, as well as engineering theory. We complete work and assignments for each given subject, for example, turning (lathes) or handfitting.

I've learnt a lot during my time at the college. I had a background of engineering beforehand however it was limited mostly to the theory side of engineering, so being taught how to use lathes and mills as well as produce components by hand has broadened my experience.

I enjoy my time at college, but for the most part, I cannot wait to actually get started at the BMW plant itself. I think working in a fully fledged engineering environment will be great fun and a great experience.

The programme itself is structured well. To start with we had a team building trip down in Wales where we met other apprentices, and during college time we all know what we are doing and aiming for.

We recieve a great deal of support from our employer, this has been especially noticeable during the lockdown due to coronavirus. Even though some of us are homebound, there is no shortage of support. We get emails weekly to make sure we are fine.

The training provider gives ample support to complete our qualifications in the form of tutoring i.e. one on one sessions amongst other things.

The competancy training we are currently doing is the base of all our knowledge and is required to continue in our job roles. Without this training off-site, learning how to do basic engineering activities on site whilst supervised by another engineer would be time consuming.

Hams Hall has an on-site gym that is free for all employees.

Yes

I feel as though BMW is probably one of the best apprenticeships in the country. BMW has a great reputation and you really can't go wrong, especially if you are interested in engineering.

If you manage to pass the online tests and you get to the interview stage, make sure to put yourself out there. Try to come across as someone who is confident and knows what they want to achieve in the next 10 years and your chances of getting a place are high.