Apprentice Engineer Review

For the first year we go to uni every other week so cover what a student would cover in two weeks in one. However, we still have lots of personal study time. During the other weeks we are in the workshop learning skills such as turning, milling, welding, drawing.

I have learnt lots of new skills as I have not had any previous engineering experience. However, those that have are finding some things as little repetitive.

I really enjoy the programme, the instructors are all helpful and enjoy what they do.

Unfortunatly the organisation of the programme is poor. We started in Jan 2021 and have missed the first semester of uni. We have not been told when this will be covered. Derby college is very poor when it comes to organising who is doing what in the workshop. The plan is constantly changing and people have gaps in the plan. When they ask what they should do during the week they find out at the very last minute if at all and have been told to do the wrong thing before.

Rolls-Royce is very supportive of any issues that you are having. I have not been pleased with covid regulations however, days when we could be working form home we are made to come in, the reason being it is not fair on the other apprentices that have to be in. The amount of support you get from your manager also seems to be a bit of a lucky dip. Some are very helpful where as mine takes a long time to reply and sort things out if at all.

The instructors are all well trained and know what we need to complete by when. They are very helpful with the paperwork that is required. It would be helpful to have more support with OneFile as we had a quick talk about it by someone who seemed to not know anything about our apprenticeship and how we use OneFile

The NVQ we are completing gives a broad understanding of manufacturing techniques. This is a course that no other company supplies. I think it will be very helpful once in the company as I will have more of an idea as to how parts are made.

Not at the moment due to covid, but usually there are

Yes

Although what I have said it negative that is because I was nitpicking at the things I wish I was aware of. However, on the whole I am very pleased with my apprenticeship, I enjoy coming to work and I would not change it for anything else.

Be honest! I studied a foundation art course before applying and so many people have asked me why I applied to become an engineer. I told them why and didn't try to hide my previous experience and I think they have respected why I did it and know that I have made a more informed career choice now.