Toolmaker Review

by BMW Group

Best Apprenticeship Employer

Rating

6/10
  • 1. Please give an overview of your role and what this involves on a day-to-day basis:

    • My job day to day mostly involves the use of overhead cranes to take apart the machine dies. Once apart, I inspect the work surfaces damages such as dents, cracks and chips. If damage is present, I use welding and grinding equipment to fix up the problems with the work surfaces.

    7/10
  • 2. Have you learnt any new skills or developed existing skills?

    • I have learnt several new skills and developed my existing skills during the apprenticeship so far. New skills I have learnt include the use of different machinery such as cranes, grinders, and pillar drills. Existing skills I have developed include the use of hand tools, problem solving and taking initiative.

    6/10
  • 3. To what extent do you enjoy your programme?

    • The apprenticeship so far has been fairly enjoyable as I have been able to learn new interesting skills, meet new people, and further my knowledge in the engineering field. I have found however that some days do feel long and can be repetitive when having to repeatably practice the same skill continuously.

    7/10
  • 4. How well organised/structured is your programme?

    • The apprenticeship has been well structured in terms of what criteria need to be met each year. However the day to day structure can be poor as there is not always a consistent workflow meaning you can be left with little to do. This downtime can be filled though by taking initiative and practicing your other skills.

    4/10
  • 5. How much support do you receive from your employer?

    • The employer has provided plenty of support as they are always contactable and will be happy to help you through any issues you are crossing.

    8/10
  • 6. How much support do you receive from your training provider when working towards your qualifications?

    • The qualification provided by the collage has had noticeably less support compared to the BMW side of the qualification. This is due to the tutors not always being present and unclear with their points when teaching.

    4/10
  • 7. How well do you feel that your qualification (through your training provider) helps you to perform better in your role?

    • I feel the collage qualification does not apply particularly well to my day to day as it is mostly math and CAD related. I do still think this qualification is helpful to learn and understand.

    6/10
  • 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.)

    • The company provides different extra-curricular opportunities but the main option includes going to schools and career events to speak about the apprenticeship program to possible applicants.

    6/10
  • 9a. Would you recommend BMW Group to a friend?

    • Yes

  • 9b. Why?

    • The apprenticeship has been a good way to get into an engineering role.

  • 10. What tips or advice would you give to others applying to BMW Group?

    • Make sure you are happy with repetitive days and can deal with long days.

Details

Level 3 Apprenticeship

Engineering

Swindon, Wiltshire

March 2025

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