Electrical Design Apprentice Review

My job role consists of carrying out work for the company. This work depends on the placement I am currently doing, but usually consists of a mix of CAD (Computer Aided Design) work using AutoCAD or a similar 3D program, carrying out online or supplier research and updating reports, policies and procedures with this information.

My apprenticeship has provided a large amount of new skills, from my college education and in the work environment. Training has been provided at work on the various software that is used such as Sharepoint, Nintex Forms, Autodesk AutoCAD and Inventor, and I've also leant a lot about the systems that are being worked on in the Naval Nuclear and general Nuclear industry.

I'm really enjoying my apprenticeship as I get to learn for a living and I really enjoy all the different tasks and challenges that it presents. I also get involved in other extra activities such as the Women's Network, the Trade Union (Prospect), and STEM events which provides me with other soft skills and additional training that I wouldn't experience otherwise.

The programme is very well structured, with a clear guide as to how the placements work, what is expected of you with regards to college and your day to day work and how to get involved in other activities that the business offers. The process of finding placements recently has changed which has had some teething issues, but I have been fortunate in that these didn't affect me too much due to my network contacts.

I always feel supported by my employer in all of the activities that I carry out, and I feel like there is always someone I can talk to or contact if I have an issue. We also have a great network of other apprentices in Bristol who are always willing to offer help and peer support and there are regular catch ups and briefings so we are aware of what is going on with the company and our role in it.

I have regular reviews with my college assessor who is able to provide guidance on the areas I need to focus on and support if I have any queries, especially in my third year when I'm not visiting the college in person anymore. I also receive feedback whenever I submit any work via the OneFile portal which allows me to see the progress I am making.

My college modules were directly relevant to the work I do on my placements and I felt that my first year (full time) provided me with a great basis when I started working 4 days a week. The ongoing college work I am doing for my NVQ also gives me an opportunity to reflect on what I am learning at work and provides me with a sense of achievement that I don't think I would have otherwise.

I often get involved in other activities at work. In January I was appointed as the chair of the Cavendish Nuclear Women's Network after being an active member since joining Cavendish, and I also volunteer as the Branch Secretary for the Prospect Trade Union, and as the Charity and Education Lead for STEM activities in Bristol for the Babcock cross-sector Hub. I also continue to work on a project I started during my first placement organising Electrical Safety Training for others in Cavendish, and I recently joined the Early Careers Health and Wellbeing group. Lastly, I was recently appointed as the General Manager of the Cavendish Bristol office due to my previous experience in office management, which has now become a 20% part of my role alongside my apprenticeship and provides me with additional networking opportunities and an insight into Health and Safety management.

Yes

Cavendish Nuclear is one of the best companies that I have worked for and I truly believe that they care about the people who work for them. This company has provided me with so many opportunities to improve my knowledge, my professional network and also how look after my physical and mental health which have been invaluable and I would recommend them to anyone.

Safety is the number 1 priority for Cavendish, so I would make that something to retain in your mindset when you are looking at previous examples in your application to make emphasise how you have acted in a safe manner at all times. Cavendish also look after their people so they will be looking for those who are kind, curious and courageous to join us.