Electrical Craft Apprentice Review

As an apprentice, learning in a safe environment is a priority. We are rotated between sites throughout the apprenticeship depending on skill areas we need to develop. Through relevant site rotations we can complete our portfolio which is a demonstration of our skills being used in practice. Not only is learning on site a key focus, we have quarterly meetings with talks from specialists in the construction field that help encourage us to think about our future in the industry. We are also encouraged to participate in competitions and volunteer at schools and colleges careers events to inspire the next generation. An average day starts with a safe start and briefing from our supervisor allocating tasks for the workforce. I am always put to work alongside a qualified electrician to ensure my work meets standards. Part of the job is learning to anticipate required materials so the morning consists of ensuring we are ready to get to work for the entire morning whether that be wiring or terminating cables. We have an hours lunch then it’s back to work for the afternoon, making sure we finish tasks before the end of the day so that we can clean and tidy the work area ready for the next day.

I am constantly learning new skills. At the start of my apprenticeship I learnt in depth about containment types and the best ways to install containment for it to be practical for use. I have also learnt how to read drawings and ensure measurements are correct and match drawings. In my second year I have been learning how to read wiring diagrams for power, lighting and data cabling. Understanding the drawing then means I can think of the most efficient way to wire circuits. I have also gained such a thorough understanding of wiring I now know how to fix mistakes without having to completely rewire a circuit

I really enjoy my apprenticeship programme. It is really clear how important apprentices are at ESG and our feedback is always taken on board. The programme is gradually updating based on our feedback with changes being made gradually to ensure the happiness of apprentices. I really enjoy the sense of community I have with other apprentices because we can support each other through the programme. Recently qualified apprentices are happy to give guidance. Current apprentices are also at the same college in the same classes so we can support each other at college too.

At the beginning of my apprenticeship, I was allocated with a new site team within ESG and didn’t feel that my on site managers understood the role or structure of the apprenticeship. I and other apprentices working with brand new teams fed this back and a handbook has been developed for apprentices and site management teams. This helps to ensure a consistent understanding of the structure of the programme is met across the company. Since beginning on a new site with a site team that has worked with ESG for much longer, they are providing the structure for me to meet all of my learning needs based on the works happening on site.

I receive a lot of support from my employer. There is always someone that will be there to listen when it’s needed. I never feel under pressure at work because learning and being an apprentice comes first. As my employer supports me, I feel empowered to take a step back from any potential situations that aren’t appropriate for an apprentice to be put in.

My college has a very well structured programme for following through all of the course content. We can also access all of the course content remotely for revision in advance of any exams. We also get to learn plenty of practical skills in the workshop so that on site we always have a good idea of how to complete a task as it’s something we have already done on a small scale at college.

I feel that the knowledge I gain through the course content means I have a better understanding of regulations and requirements so I know what to reference to in the workplace through using resources like the on site guide. I have also had the opportunity to work with many cable types and some containment types in the workshop so I feel more confident working on site as I am familiar with the materials.

We have quarterly apprentice meetings where all craft and technical apprentices get together and have company updates from one of our Managing Directors. We also have an open questions session as part of this where we can gain clarification on any queries we might have. We also have a summer conference and a Christmas company update, awards ceremony and party where all staff are invited. We also are invited to volunteer at schools, colleges and careers fairs.

Yes

The support received as an apprentice at the company is amazing. You aren’t left without a voice and are regularly reminded that it is important to speak up. I also feel I have a future career within the company as they provide growth and learning opportunities beyond an apprenticeship.

This company looks for people who are keen to develop their skills and become an asset in the construction industry. It is important to show that you’re driven and looking ahead to your future and the construction industry future. You need to be willing to put in work and effort and that attitude will be acknowledged