Apprentice Electronics Engineer Review

on a day to day basis, we are expected to work towards completing a SVQ level 3 logbook, including logs, technical reports, observations, and professional discussions, gathering evidence from work completed on site. additionally, completing a day release qualification, such as an NC or HNC, and attending courses, such as 18th Edition, PA testing etc.

As someone straight out of school, an apprenticeship was the ideal option to develop skills, and learn whilst earning, with a potential job on completion of the apprenticeship. I have learnt many skills, such as communication, IT, and work based skills (relating to electronics), but also have gained confidence as competence increases.

I have fully enjoyed my apprenticeship programme. I have made good friends within my section, and also have had the opportunity to make contacts across the business. Despite the coronavirus pandemic affecting the middle to end part of my apprenticeship, I was supported well by my apprentice masters, colleagues, and assessor.

The apprentice programme was structured well. The first year was spent at college, completing a SVQ Level 2. From second to third year, I came on site, starting my work based learning SVQ Level 3, and doing a day release HNC in Electronic Engineering. I always know what is expected of me as I have regular reviews with my assessors and apprentice masters.

As I mentioned in a previous question, I think the amount of support I received during such times of uncertainty was valued. Friends I had in other apprenticeships were being let go due to the pandemic and Babcock was in a position to offer apprentices in situations like this the opportunity to finish their apprenticeship with Babcock.

I get monthly reviews with my assessor, and get quarterly reviews where my progress over the past few months is noted and submitted to Skills Development Scotland. I get study leave where necessary during courses and for exams during my HNC. Work from home opportunities to complete logging was also granted during lockdowns.

I feel work based learning is good as it all the evidence submitted will be relevant to the future job position. It also gives me and my section the chance to review the work I complete before I submit it as evidence. There is also the opportunity to participate in further education if you can show you can apply yourself.

There are a number of networks on site, including: Pride in Babcock, Neurodiversity and Disability Network, Women's Network, and the Young Person's Network. There is also a Gym, Swimming Pool, Football Pitches, and dry Ski/Snowboarding Pitches available on site to use. There is always the opportunity to attend lunches and meetings to expand your networks and meet people you wouldn't otherwise.

Yes

I feel Babcock has supported me well during my apprenticeship, and tends to retain apprentices after their time. Most of the people I have met whilst working here were apprentices or graduates themselves, which shows progression and ambition through the business. I feel there is support for me to always further my learning and enhance my skills.

They should be willing to learn and push themselves! Make sure to get what you can out of your apprenticeship - go on any outward bounds and try the activities, try join networks and meet new people, and go on all the extra courses and education you can when all the support is there to do so, and never be afraid to ask!