Safety Apprentice Review

In my day-to-day job, I currently produce safety work for the development of airspace design (airspace change). This includes, safety assurance reports, conducting hazard analysis, risk assessments, developing strategies, engaging with internal and external stakeholders, as well as seeking out of scope work in order to gain experience associated with the professional standards.

Communication was always a strong skill for me. However, since joining NATS I have developed this skill further and in a new way. Conveying technically detailed information and evidence-based opinion has been a new experience and I continue to develop it every day. Taking control of my own work, taking initiative and working independently are skills that I continue to develop daily.

I enjoy the people. I like that there is an abundance of knowledge and that Subject Matter Experts make themselves available to me and are more than happy to share their knowledge and experience. They are also keen to help me with my learning and university-related task, which has allowed me to develop at a greater pace than I otherwise would have.

Communication in the programme has sometimes hindered its progress and I have found that some lack of common understanding among the three parties has been an added stress to me. Furthermore, I feel that the uni have helpfully accommodated later deadlines at our request, however, the uncertainty over the official end date is something which is still ongoing and with it being this late into the programme, I feel that it is something that should have been clarified at the very start of the programme.

NATS have been extremely supportive since the start of employment. Line-managers and colleagues have made themselves readily available and any suggestions I have made that may help my progress have been welcomed. I feel that my employer does what they can to ensure that I succeed, and any contributions I make are noticed.

Support at the start of the programme from the University was very good and they engaged with us to make sure we had a good start. Since starting Year 2 and with working from home, however, I feel that the university has been rather absent. I don't feel as engaged and the support I receive is not at a level that I would expect at this stage.

I feel that the majority of learning that allows me to perform in work stems from my employer, rather than the uni. The university course is very relevant with regard to case studies and current safety and risk standards and I feel that even though my role is particular to my employer, I have still been able to make connections between the course and my role.

Yes. Before COVID-19, NATS had an active Early Careers Team which engaged with those that have come to the organisation from university. We were engaged in various out of work activities, such as representing NATS at career days and conferences which gave us an opportunity to take part in activities outside of the office.

Yes

I believe NATS is an outward looking organisation which engages with every colleague and allows you to voice your concerns and opinions. It allows you to be you and encourages you to be the best you can be. NATS also encourages you to develop important skills and professionally develop at your own pace.

Understand what NATS is, what the key objectives/goals NATS has, and compare yourself to the organisation - do you fit? If it's your passion to work in aviation and airspace development, you're in the right place. Let your passion come to the surface and let it be known to NATS, it was my passion for the industry that uncovered my potential and got me the role I'm in today.