Electrical Apprentice Review

As an Electrical apprentice, I have a fairly varied work day. I assist my colleagues and learn whilst doing so. On a typical job, we talk about the task we are going to undertake, then write up a POWRA (Point of Work Risk Assessment) to make sure we have covered all safety aspects of the job and rectified anything that wasn't safe. Then I am usually shown part of the job, demonstrated and then I get a chance to give it a go myself. Then when I'm confident I can carry on with that task.

I've learnt loads of new skills since starting my apprenticeship. My knowledge and understanding of electrical systems and how to work on them also transfers quite well to a lot of skills needed to carry out DIY, allowing me help out with home improvements and repairs at home that I would never have attempted before.

I enjoy the work I do, the people I work with, and the people I learn with at college. This programme has given me fantastic confidence in and out of work. I feel like I want to go to work rather than have to go to work. I have job satisfaction.

My programme is fairly organised but there is an element of flexibility. We know in advance when we are going to college, but due to the nature of the job, things change and you can't always know what jobs you'll be working on day to day. Its organised enough that it works well though.

My engineers are very good at helping me if I need it. Whether that be equipment/PPE/learning resources, or if I dont understand something. I've not yet had a problem with anyone at work that I've needed to speak to them about, but I'm constantly reminded of the channels I can go through to get help for such an event. I feel supported through my apprenticeship

The college I attend is not always the best organised and we have been a bit unlucky with a lot of tutors leaving during the apprenticeship. That said, when the college is running well, there is plenty of support available to me and I know who I can see to receive that support.

My work at college supports and supplements my role at work. I learn the theory at college and then get to put it into practice at work. Its a great cycle, and something I don't understand at work one week may get explained the next time at college, and vice versa.

There aren't any sports events as far as I'm aware of, but we do have some social events throughout the year that I always attend. They are great for getting to know your colleagues outside of a work environment. I would be interested in more events to come

Yes

They are a big company that provides a secure role. There are plenty of opportunities to move around the business if you got bored of your role, and SSE takes safety very seriously so you never feel like you have to do something that is unsafe. SSE wants you to be happy, and they want you to get home safe to your family every day

Take an interest, be keen, and do some research. I spent a fair bit of time learning about the company before I applied, this meant I understood what I was getting myself in for. Also, don't be put off applying if you're a bit older. I applied at 26