Substation Apprentice Review

For the first and second year I spend most of my time on training courses at the national grid training centre. When I'm not there I'm on site gaining first hand experience.

Since the start of the apprenticeship I've constantly been on different courses, mostly learning new skills but also developing skills such as maths. There's been alot to take in, in a short amount of time, however I am enjoying the challenge.

Having to stay away from home most weekdays have become quite difficult, especially since there isn't much to do in or around the training centre in the evenings. Apart from this, I'm enjoying the courses themselves and am looking forward to spending more time on site in the next few years.

I feel valued by national grid, form the trainers to colleagues on site I feel they have treated me with respect and understanding. I have not had any experiences of feeling undervalued or undermined.

I think the programme could be a little more flexible and organised. I have a yearly rota, the first year I spend 34 weeks up at the training centre, holiday isn't allowed to be taken during this time, which has become quite difficult. The rest of the year I am on site, these weeks are usually just random ones with no type of planning gone in to checking whether there is any work happening that I can be involved with or that will benefit me.

There is alot of support throughout the training. The trainers are all really helpful and supportive, I also feel as though I can go to my managers and mentor if I ever need some extra support.

There is alot of support throughout the training. The trainers are all really helpful and supportive, I also feel as though I can go to my managers and mentor if I ever need some extra support.

The salary is good, plus when at the training centre everything is provided and paid for. The raise each year depends on progress in the apprenticeship which is fair.

I haven't really looked into any just yet, however I know that there is a fair amount of opportunities available if you are looking for them kind of things.

Yes

I believe it’s a very good company to start a career with, there is alot of room to move forward and upwards within the company once the course is complete.

Be prepared for having to spend alot of time away from home in a training centre which doesn’t have alot going on. However it should be worth it in the end when once qualified.