Controls Technician apprentice Review

by BMW Group

Best Apprenticeship Employer

Rating

8.2/10

1. Please give an overview of your role and what this involves on a day-to-day basis:

Daily tasks will involve various maintenance tasks on each of the lines within the factory. Each day is different, some days you may have to complete a mechanical task where you are accompanied by a skilled technician throughout the process, whereas there are some controls based tasks where you are able to shadow and learn new programming techniques.

9/10

2. Have you learnt any new skills or developed existing skills?

New skills are developed on a regular basis, but it was also possible to develop on some existing skills in which I garnered from my previous apprenticeship. As each day is different within the plant it is possible to get a feel for different systems and processes. Furthermore, attending college on day release each week also provides more theory based knowledge that can often be used in the workplace.

9/10

3. To what extent do you enjoy your programme?

I enjoy the apprenticeship greatly, I am able to learn new skills and develop in different aspects on engineering. The apprenticeship offers a very hands on aspect which allows you to get a good mechanical understanding of the different systems used within BMW. The apprenticeship offers a great team working environment and company culture.

9/10

4. How well organised/structured is your programme?

The programme has good structure, upon getting the apprenticeship you will have an induction and tour around the plant to get an understanding of how the company runs on a day to day basis. Training is provided whilst on different placements within the business and you are able to complete training and studying on a day release system. Overall I feel that the programme is well organised.

8/10

5. How much support do you receive from your employer?

8/10

6. How much support do you receive from your training provider when working towards your qualifications?

9/10

7. How well do you feel that your qualification (through your training provider) helps you to perform better in your role?

7/10

8. Are there extra-curricular activities to get involved in at your work? (For example, any social activities, sports teams, or even professional networking events.)

7/10

9a. Would you recommend BMW Group to a friend?

Yes

9b. Why?

I would recommend BMW to a friend as it's a great apprenticeship where you are able to learn new things on a daily basis. The technicians in which you work with offer help whilst completing tasks and pass on enough information to get more experience on the machines.

10. What tips or advice would you give to others applying to BMW Group?

When applying for the BMW Group apprenticeship my best advice would be to complete some research on the background of the company and prepare some questions. During the interview it is important to stay relaxed and answer each question carefully, make sure you have done enough preparation so you are able to answer work based questions. As for the assessment days I would complete the practice tests to ensure you have a good understanding before undertaking the actual test.