Engineering Apprentice Review

I work with the Civils team at TRUe. I have been the engineer during nights for LOC Staging's, Retaining walls, Topo Surveys and also assisted with the bridge over the Christmas blockade. my day to day consists of working on AS builts and RLAB.

I have learnt how to use civil engineering tools such as the GPS and Total station. I have a stronger understanding of the railway and the construction the civil teams undertake. this includes both lineside civils and structural civils.

I love working for Volker Rail as the apprenticeship is enabling me to obtain hands on experience as well as the theory behind it. we are trained to become competent in tasks and then are given opportunities to work and complete tasks by ourselves.

Very well. The programme consists of 4 learning reviews which are held with our business sponsor. if we find that we aren't getting experience we work towards those targets to ensure we are meeting out requirements. We are given various tasks too which ensure that we can work in different areas.

We receive a lot of support. We don't only have a business sponsor but we have so many colleagues who are knowledgeable and always ready to help if we're unsure on anything. If we find that we are struggling with University or any job tasks we are given time and assistance to ensure that we understand. There isn't a pressure or a deadline so we don't have to rush the training.

We have regular meetings with out training provider where we share our grades, how we're progressing in the workplace and how the university can better itself. They take the feedback on board however if they dont then our business sponsor keeps in regular touch to ensure we are getting the support we need.

The course has enabled me not only learnt about my chosen pathway, civil engineering, but it has allowed me to explore and gain knowledge with other areas of the railway. I have the basic knowledge and understanding of other disciplines but if I require any support, I am able to reach out to other members who can help out.

There are a lot of volunteering opportunities as well as day out within TRU. We have an early careers forum which allows all early careers to get together and work through different activities.

Yes

The company supports you in so many different ways. Of course the main benefits consists of being paid and not having to worry about paying for a degree. However I think the experience, knowledge and training we receive in the workplace is so beneficial. The team is always there to support your needs and gives you assistance with work or university coursework.

I think the main thing to note is that when working as an apprentice you will be going to university part time however dont be afraid to speak up if you need time away for your studies. Don't be afraid to speak up or ask questions as we may not know a lot at the beginning but the whole purpose is to learn!