Central Heating Installation Apprentice Review

by British Gas

Best Apprenticeship Employer

Rating

7.2/10

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

Drive to academy, go to workroom, series of class based learning and practical tasks. Too much class based PowerPoints and not enough practical learning.

8/10

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

I have learned a variety of new skills from my time both in the academy and out on my patch.

9/10

3. To what extent do you enjoy your programme?

I enjoy learning new skills and putting them to the test out on patch, but I struggle at times with the classroom based work and the way that it is delivered to me.

8/10

4. How well organised/structured is your programme?

During the first 8 weeks there was a real lack of organisation. A lot of the kit I needed for my role was missing, and when it came to going out onto patch for the first time, I had no contact from my line manager or mentors and as such ended up feeling very stressed. I did not know where I would be going until 8pm the day before the first job, which I found difficult.

5/10

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

There is plenty of support available within the organisation, but I feel the academy itself would benefit from a wellbeing team who will show their faces every now and then and be available for a chat, there a quite a few apprentices I feel would benefit from this.

7/10

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

British Gas want you to succeed, and this is the first time I have worked for an employer where this is evident, they provide adequate support and assistance and are always providing extra training.

7/10

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

My qualification is essential for my role.

8/10

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.)

None. But I am aware that there are some available.

6/10

9a. Would you recommend British Gas to a friend?

Yes

9b. Why?

The training is good, and the company will look after you. I have never worked for a company or organisation that genuinely want you to succeed, and will provide you (eventually) with everything you need to complete your role day to day.

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

Be ready for a fast-paced and intense course, but you will receive support and assistance throughout and meet some really decent and fun people. Be ready for some days to feel not very organised, and some kit to take a while longer than others, but it will all be worth it to be part of a business that is still growing and will support you to grow with it.