Maintenance Technician Apprentice Review

My apprenticeship gives me the skills and qualifications needed to become a fully qualified maintenance technician. I am currently in the third year of my apprenticeship, which involves completing placements around each of the three technologies. I complete my HNC program with Birmingham Metropolitan, who teach the subjects on site.

I have developed an array of theory and practical skills throughout my time here, both during placements, and with the training provider. My initial training during the first year involved learning the basics. These skills have developed during the following 2 years. I hope to continue developing my skills into the 4th year.

I enjoy my program, which allows me to develop my social, practical and theoretical skills in the field of engineering/manufacturing. The work load can be very high at times, but ultimately, I enjoy the challenge. There is good opportunity to show your willingness and desire to learn. This is reflected by positive feedback and increased pay rises over the 4 year term.

My apprenticeship is currently very well organised, after a change of management in 2020. All concerns are noted and chased up accordingly. I feel that the current management care about the apprentices, and take an interest in our learning. Birmingham Metropolitan are fairly well organised, but their recruitment process for HNC teachers must be improved.

I receive support from my employer with positive and negative feedback after placement exit interviews. I know that mental health support is available if requested. Support is given by the training managers and placement managers when being introduced to new placements. I have 3 month one to one meetings with my training provider to monitor progress.

I receive a fair amount of support from Birmingham Metropolitan College. Despite this, there is a lack of one to one reviews. Most of the support comes from the current HNC teacher, not the management staff. We used to have three monthly reviews, but these have now stopped. I hope the support improves.

I feel that the vast amount of my level 3 and level 4 theory qualifications help me to perform well in my role, as well as the practical basic training completed in the first year. Most of these skills will also be applicable to other roles within the business at BMW.

Due to COVID, this has been at a minimum. Activities are available to join, such as the mountain challenge under normal circumstances. School recruitments days are also available to visit. I feel that this area could be improved however, as I would like to be involved in more engineering based 'after work' activities.

Yes

I feel that this job challenges you as a person, and allows you to develop your social and practical skills whilst earning a wage. I have thoroughly enjoyed the three years here, and would like to work here when my apprenticeship has finished. Hopefully the apprenticeship opens up a vast array of job opportunities in the future.

Put good effort into your application and show willingness in the interview. I would suggest to people that networking is important here, and will open up opportunities in the future. If you get the job - show willingness in your work and demonstrate good behavior to management. It is a very enjoyable job if you are accepted.