Pressure, Control and Storage Apprentice Review

I am a Pressure, Storage and Control Apprentice. The work includes working on low to high gas pressure systems to ensure they work in a efficient and safe manner.

Whilst working at National Grid, many of my skills have been developed. The most significant of these are those bases around National Grids core values; respect, integrity, ownership and working as one team.

The programme itself is a very enjoyable experience, as there is a great amount of variety. Thus far we have taken part in a team building week, and a mix of practical experience and theory. More so, the company culture is very good, everyone I have approached whilst working here s be willing to hep with any worries I've had.

Across the apprenticeship, recognition and involvement is very good. We are allocated mentors for the entirety of the course who we can approach with any concerns we may have. We also undertake 10 weekly reviews with our programme manager, and weekly feedback from trainers. As an individual, I feel like a valid part of the team/workforce.

The programme is very well structured, as it breaks up the theoretical, physical and on site training so you're not stuck doing the same thing over more than 3 weeks at a time. As a whole, you are given a large period of notice before attending a course, but in some rare cases, courses and times may be cancelled or rescheduled with only short notice. Nevertheless, the programme managers always try their best to fit the training courses around you when ever possible.

Training on the apprenticeship is provided by a mixture of National Grid employees, outsourced training providers and contractors. From my experience, all the training providers have been happy to help me with anything i've not been sure with.

Getting support from our programme manager is very accessible, we are provided with a work phone once employed and can use these to call them if we have any issues, worries or queries. We also have 10 weekly reviews with out programme manager to ensure we are in the right direction to complete the apprenticeship and to raise any worries or suggestions we have. Our Mentors are an incredibly helpful asset with our on-job training, as they and other work collogues teach us whilst on site.

National Grid pay back all the expenses associated with travelling to and from training exercises and the pay was more than any other apprenticeship I came across whilst in the process of applying!

Whilst at the Training Academy there are plenty of activities to keep you entertained. There is a lounge with a bar, flat screen TV and pool and snooker tables, a small scaled 9 hole golf course, 5 aside astro, etc. As well as the option to leave in the evening to bowling, cinema etc. Whilst on site there are also team days out, where you and your work collogues undertake activities such a GO-Karting

Yes

Not only is the apprenticeship a solid programme with lots of opportunities not offered by other employers, but it is a joy to work for National Grid. They are keen to support you and develop you as a person, as well as award individuals for hard work.

When in the recruitment process, do you research on the company and the position you're applying for; having an interest in the job and company is a huge insight as to whether you will make a good employee.