Precision Machinist Apprentice Review

by AWE

Rating

8.2/10

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

I am a machinist and I use lathes, mills, CNC machines, etc to make components.

10/10

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

I have leant lots of new skills over the course of my apprenticeship. Experiencing how to use the various machines has been a great learning experience.

10/10

3. To what extent do you enjoy your programme?

I really enjoy my apprentice, I enjoy the challenge every time I am faced with anew job.

10/10

4. How well organised/structured is your programme?

The first two years have been really well organised, work can be slow at times but I always feel like I am progressing when I'm working. It is quite concerning though the lack of placements for machinists.

7/10

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

I know that whenever I have an issue or concern, my line manager or pastoral is always available and will always take me seriously.

10/10

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

We have had issues with poor teachers in the past, this has been resolved now but it did take a long time to be resolved and it did really impact our ability to learn.

5/10

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

The practical side of things doesn't impact work because it is all stuff we've already experience lots already. Maths and materials can be helpful, and the CAD stuff is pretty interesting.

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.)

There are some extra-curricular activities, but they are limited.

7/10

9a. Would you recommend AWE to a friend?

Yes

9b. Why?

I really enjoy my apprentice. Everything on site is always interesting, the working environment is always great, and my instructors are always really important. Aside from issues with placements, I have no complaints about any aspects on-site.

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

Be patient, the recruiting process is very slow and sometimes stressful, but it is so worth it when you finally get onto site.