Control Engineer Review

On the first year, we spend one day a week studying towards a Level 3 Btec which consists of classroom learning and assignments. On the other 4 days we are in the workshop learning practical skills such as Welding, Milling, Turning, Electricals, Electronics and PLC. As of the second year I will begin going on placement around the business for 4 days a week, and then to University one day a week

We are always learning new skills, the course is fast paced and typically change topics every 4 weeks during the first year. Depending on our previous experience, many of the areas we study in the workshop are new to us. We also have lots of opportunities to learn new skills aside from the course and are given chances to put them into practice.

I enjoy the programme very much so. In our year group there are people of all ages, some mature apprentices who have came from the factory. Being of all ages it enables everyone to learn new skills from one another. The mature apprentices can then also help us understand and appreciate how what we are learning is relevant to life in the factory. All the staff are approachable and hence makes time at work enjoyable.

Our programme is very organised and structured. We are aware each week what we will be doing and tutors are transparent in telling us what will be around the corner. There is some flexibility during the days, and time is given to us to complete extra curricular activities. Assignments are given one after another, with set hand in dates which we all must meet. Any meetings or reviews are pre-booked weeks, sometimes months in advanced allowing you to prepare if necessary.

BMW supports us massively. The team has an open door policy and we can confront anyone of them at anytime for support or guidance. We have regular meetings with the employer to discuss our progress on the course. All apprentices know the structure of the apprentice team, and know who has direct responsibility for each apprentice.

The tutors help to facilitate our learning. They try different methods of teaching to best suit the topic and the needs of the apprentices. Not only do they teach us skills, but they try to grow us to become better suited for a working environment helping us learn problem solving and team work skills. The tutors are very easy to talk to if we need extra support, which makes the apprenticeship scheme enjoyable,

Despite only being a first year apprentice, I am quickly becoming aware of how the qualification i am studying towards will help me in the future. The tutors highlight key areas of the course which will benefit us in the future and try to push and stretch our knowledge in these areas. Because our course is tailored to our needs and assignments are in the context of the engineering world, it allows us to gain a deeper understanding of the engineering sector.

Without covid, there is normally a wide range of extra- curricular opportunities to get involved with at work. There are many work related opportunities such as the News Letter and representing the company at events. There also charity events that apprentices are encourage to get involved with. When Covid allows it, we are planning on starting a 5-aside football team.

Yes

The main reason why I would recommend the BMW group is because they value their apprentices just as much as any other staff member. The opportunities and potential you have working for BMW is endless. Many of the experienced staff I have spoken to have told stories of how they started in one area of the business and have ended up in a completely different part. The facilities we have are amazing and the company is always trying to invest in new equipment to benefit the apprentices.

I would recommend having work experience, either with BMW or else where in engineering. Work experience allowed me to have an insight into the business making me more prepared for interviews. Having a good CV is also important, make sure it stands out and shows why you are a serious candidate - I used pictures as evidence to show the skills and experienced I had.