Mechanical Maintenance Technician Review

In the final year of the advanced apprenticeship scheme, currently working as a Mechanical technician within the fuel route department on Heysham 1 nuclear powerstation. Day to day activities include completing a morning brief which includes a safety message, station log and work for the day. After that we are given documents for the job, set to work and collect any necessary spares. From there the job is completed using the correct PPE and safety procedures to ensure that the job is completed safely. Once all work is complete all documents are completed and handed back, allowing any relevant test runs or isolations to be completed or removed.

I have been given the opportunity to develop both existing and new skills. I had originally developed leadership skills through 6th form and the apprenticeship with EDF Energy has allowed me to continue this development and also allowed for me to be put into situations that will test these skills learnt. I have managed to complete new training that have helped develop my skill set and will allow for me to complete my job safely and efficiently. We are given the opportunity to develop life skills within the first year of the apprenticeship and on the job training in the second 2 years of the apprenticeship.

I thoroughly enjoy the apprenticeship. Being given the opportunity to travel, learn new skills, develop previously learnt skills and to earn whilst I learn has given me a great start to my career and will be a period in my life that I will look back fondly of.

I feel extremely valued by EDF Energy, with the opportunities that they have given me and the financial investment that they have made in me really does make me feel a valued member of the company.

The programme is structured in a way that builds your knowledge and skills prior to being based on site. The two years away from home is a great time to develop especially for the younger apprentices. The qualification manuals, NVQ's and associated training on site is all well structured.

For the first two years down at HMS Collingwood and HMS Sultan I recieved exceptional support from all staff including the training manager, apprentice coordinator and all instructors. The training on site is always easy to access and of high quality.

I feel I recieve as much support as I need. For the first two years they paids for all food, accomodation and travel.

My salary more than covers my costs, for the first two years they cover all costs of living such as food, accomodation and travel.

Yes, I managed to complete the three peaks challenge through EDF Energy outside of work. I have also been invited to play in the golf society allowing me to play a variety of courses. There were also a number of opportunities when in the first two years such as dragon boat races, skydives and many more.

Yes

I feel it is a great company and a great opportunity for any young adult looking to gain a great career. I also feel personally that the apprenticeship is a better route than university as you get paid whilst you learn and have no debt after.

Work hard, ensure you enjoy it and look back and have no regrets.