Supply Chain Planning & Control Higher Apprentice Review

The planning and control higher apprenticeship offers trainees the opportunity to experience different roles from around the business, in both customer and supplier facing roles. This provides opportunity to learn on the job whilst studying for a full degree in management and leadership.

The skills I have learned the most are planning and interpersonal. Planning skills are important not only in role but from a personal point of view whilst juggling the demands of the job, degree, NVQ and other qualifications and training courses. Interpersonal skills are required in all of the roles I have undertaken. These have developed over time and will be useful in future roles.

I have had a mixed scheme with some placements offering more than others. Some have been really engaging and enjoyable whilst others haven't offered enough work or the subject is uninteresting. This is still useful as it has made me realise where I wouldn't like to work as well as where I would like to work.

As an apprentice it is sometimes difficult to get your point across as you're always the least qualified. Some areas are really interested in fresh ideas whilst others are very set in their ways and resistant to any change or disruption. Overall I feel somewhat valued by the company.

Our programme is structured very well with support from the business perspective with the heads of the scheme sat in crucial roles within the planning and control function. HR support is provided by a very supportive Apprentice Development Leader. Placements tend to be well organised in advance of starting.

My training provider(s) are generally engaged in what I and my peers do on a day to day basis. Nottingham Trent University, who deliver my degree course are satisfactory in their support, sometimes unsatisfactory but issues tend to be dealt with when raised.

Rolls Royce provide a great deal of support as detailed in q6. The structure of having a business rep as well as HR being involved in development works really well and I always feel well supported in my development.

After bills my salary has to be really stretched. The pay scale does however seem fair and the progression criteria is well defined. Although I live locally fuel costs are my biggest issue.

My apprenticeship scheme has offered a multitude of opportunities outside of work. Becoming a STEM ambassador allowed me to take part in a number of voluntary activities which were rewarding alongside the outward bound scheme which totals two weeks over the first two years of the course.

Yes

Rolls Royce doesn't only offer a wide range of opportunities during the well supported apprenticeship scheme, but the opportunity for progression throughout the company is brilliant. Although there are some shortfalls the relevant people who own the apprenticeship schemes are always seen to be taking on our issues and doing something out them.

Generally I would say to just be yourself. It seems that the company value experiences and skills as much as academic scores so be sure to sell yourself from that point of view. The assessment day was enjoyable so just relax.