business apprentice Review

I work in 6-9 month long placements around the business. Currently in commercial, I write letters to the customer, make amendments to the contract, check the contract, have regular catch up meetings internally and externally. I run regular reports using various tools. I also attend university 1.5 days a week, where I study 6 modules a year.

I've learnt to use many different tools around the business. I have learnt how to communicate with different types of people eg. colleagues, customers, work friends. I have learnt to write formal letters and emails. I have also learnt presentation and teamwork skills.

I find the apprenticeship to be a lot of work, and have to focus hard on my studies and day job. I enjoy working at the company and the people I work with. There are many benefits gained from working with MBDA.

The department can change how valued I feel. Some departments can view us as a free resource, so ask us to do tasks other employees don't want to do. However, some departments get us involved in valuable jobs, which makes us more important in the day to day tasks.

The programme is well structures in the way we go to university and work and training opportunities. There is lots of support for our studies. When joining the company, a mentor is offered, and a buddy system is in place to help new comers.

At the university of Hertfordshire, the support differs. Some tutors are very helpful and provide good feedback, however some tutors are very distant and do not provide any help or support.

My employer offers a lot of support in the work place and is helpful when discussing placement. My employer offers support for university, however does not always appreciate the amount of time and effort that needs to go into university work.

The salary offered is a good salary, for an apprenticeship. On the salary I earn, I am currently unable to move out, however I do have the money available to pay for a car, travel costs and have some savings.

We regularly have apprentice social nights out. During term time, my social life is limited due to the amount of time spent on doing university work.

Yes

It is a good apprenticeship and course available. Working whilst studying is difficult, however offers more opportunities and experience. The training provided during the apprenticeship is transferable to other businesses and gaining a degree is useful for the future.

Be sure you can cope with the amount of work that needs to be done. During term time at university, you have to work during the day and get home and do university work. Have a good work ethic and be a hard worker, as well as wanting the apprenticeship. If you don't really want the apprenticeship, it will be more difficult.