Design Technician Apprentice Review

by Schneider Electric

Best Apprenticeship Employer

Rating

6.1/10

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

I edit technical drawings and update data bases. Sometimes I go down to the lab to help with product testing. I interact with many people as I need to get approvals in order to do updates to drawings. I'm currently working on adding a logo to different boxes/labels.

6/10

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

I have learnt how to use CAD software. I have improved my excel skills. I have learnt how to change a radiator valve. I have learnt about different regulations.

6/10

3. To what extent do you enjoy your programme?

I enjoy the stability. I enjoy helping with STEM activities that we hold. It's pretty good. I can't complain too much

6/10

4. How well organised/structured is your programme?

At work everything is very well organized. Unfortunately Plymouth City College faces a lot of teacher absence, lack of quality teaching, and general chaos. This has lead to them having to restructure how they deliver the curriculum but they have failed to stick to this adjustment so the students are left to do more work in less time. They frequently apologize and try to patch up the holes but it has been an incredibly stressful experience on that side. Luckily my manager has been very understanding of this which has allowed me to stay on track despite all the issue thrown upon me.

4/10

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

A good amount. I've had a lot of training and I feel that this is an environment I can learn a lot in. Everyone is nice and understanding and always willing to help/support when they can.

9/10

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

Very little. They offered support lessons to student after a lot of teacher absences however they turned into complaining sessions and did not provide much if any learning support. The environment at Plymouth city college is not welcoming or pleasant to be in. For these reasons I do not feel entirely supported. They are currently helping me to get rest brakes in exams which I have had previously so I do appreciate that. Although that is the bare minimum.

2/10

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

They have taught me how to use CAD which is an essential part of my job. I have also learnt about materials and their properties which is other important knowledge that I will need as an engineer.

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.)

Yes. There have been bowling events and meals out as well as other activities. They provided a networking day just for apprentices and graduates who joined that year in the company.

9/10

9a. Would you recommend Schneider Electric to a friend?

Yes

9b. Why?

They appear to have good values and treat their employees well especially compared to what I've heard about other companies.

10. What tips or advice would you give to others applying to Schneider Electric?

I don't really know what advice would be helpful - I'm not sure I entirely understand this question