Toolmaker Review

In the first year four days a week, we are in working towards a Level 2 Foundation in Mechatronics which allows for the base understanding of the program to be achieved. As I have already achieved a Level 3 qualification in Engineering, I have started Year 2 work once a week which involves on the job training which gives an insight into what I will be expecting for the rest of my apprenticeship.

I have had prior understanding of some of the units we have covered on the Level 2 Foundation which includes electronics and hand fitting units. However, I have learnt many new skills such as milling, turning and welding which I had no prior experience and have no learnt these skills to a good level.

I have enjoyed this program due to the number of new skills both hands on work and the theoretical background of the units we have completed. The other apprentices are very kind and allow for an overall enjoyable experience. The main reason I enjoy my apprenticeship is because I know that in the workshop I will be learning something new every week and have the opportunity to learn new skills and experience different tools and processes.

There is a strong sense of organisation both from BMW and BMET in regards to the apprenticeship however, there can be times where organisation is not the best and there has been times where there have been overlapping tasks from the employer and training provider. On the whole, the apprenticeship is well organised and I am confident in knowing what work I need to do and when it needs to be handed in.

The support I receive from my employer is very strong and I have full confidence that if I have any issues that my employer can resolve and support me to achieve the best possible outcome. I have weekly meetings with my employer where we discuss what I have completed this week and if there are any issues that I want to raise or any problems that need to be discussed with me.

During the Foundation work, I feel I receive support and help with each unit and I know that if I had any issues or any problems that I would be supported through the problem. An example of this was the fact I had struggled to get my head around some electrical theory and my lecturer sat down with me and took me through the whole process until I understood everything.

Whilst being in the workplace once a week, I am able to use the skills I have been learning and it allows me to have a better understanding of the processes used. Although I have not finished my training and as haven't been able to use all my skills, I am confident that the training provided has allowed me to grow my skills required for the workplace,

There are many different activities to get involved with through BMW such as a race team that is based in Plant Oxford which allows for all areas of the business to come together and run a race team. Also there is an apprentice run newsletter which allows for the apprentice experience to be shared throughout the business and can give insight into what other apprentices are doing. There is also lots of charity work to get involved in too.

Yes

The main reason is because I have never not wanted to go to work and have always woke up excited for my day at work as I really enjoy the training provided and feel like it is a well supported role. I really enjoy my apprenticeship so far and would therefore recommend the apprenticeship.

There are many different apprenticeships that BMW Group offer and therefore, my first piece of advice would be to research which role would best suit you as there are many different path ways to go down. Also, the application takes a long time so if you feel like you haven't heard about moving onto the next stage or are getting nervous it is perfectly fine.