Commercial Apprentice Review

I am a Commercial Apprentice, working at EDF Energy, on the New Nuclear Power Station. The duration of my apprenticeship is 5 years, where I will obtain a HNC and HND in Construction and the Built environment.(Years 1 and 2) In years 3 to 5 I will be working towards a fully accredited degree, which is in Quantity Surveying and Commercial Management. I attend Bridgwater college, on a bi monthly basis to study the HNC and HND, and the rest of my time is spent either on site (Cannington), or in the offices in Bristol. I have 3 rotations in the first year, where I will be in different departments. This will not only help my networking but also improve my confidence and people skills. I work alongside professionals, who will assign work. This ranges from, AFP (application for payment) to contract management and cost auditing. As a commercial Apprentice, I will be expected to understand contract management, being able to liaise with contractors and present information efficiently. I will also have to understand payment and the financial side of contracts.

I have improved in all areas. Confidence has always been a struggle for me and 'throwing' myself into the deep end, has enabled me to overcome this issue. confidence and communication are closely linked, and I feel as if I efficiently communicate, being able to present information to colleagues. Time management has drastically improved for me also. This is because I now own a diary, whereby I record everything. This enables me to plan ahead and ensure I am appropriately prepared, given any situation.

I absolutely love the programme. It has to be the most effective decision I have made to date. I have improved myself in all areas and exceeded my own expectations!

I absolutely feel valued by EDF Energy. They are a company who go above and beyond for their colleagues, ensuring that they can accommodate you, regardless of ones situation.

The programme itself is innovative as it is the first of it's kind. We are effectively the 'pilot' intake. Having said this, I feel as if the programme is well tailored and organised. If problems occur, which sometimes they do. EDF Energy do everything they can to ensure I (the apprentices), are well looked after.

Bridgwater College are our training provider. We have direct communication with the programme manager, and any requests one has, will be dealt with appropriately.

There are endless personnel who can offer support. I work with professionals, who have vast amounts of experience. Who else better to ask for support? All apprentices are assigned a mentor. this is to support in work but also personal issues. With regard to training, EDF Energy are always conducting training courses, as this ensures up to date, relevant training is provided to all employees.

As I am careful with my finances, the salary does meet my costs. However one would argue that if I were to be given a bigger salary, one would also make the costs meet the salary.

There are a great number of opportunities inside and outside of work. EDF Energy's recruitment for the Commercial Apprenticeship opened in September 2016. As part of the recruitment, I and another colleague attended a local school, where we conducted 'mock' interviews for the students. This was to give them a feel for a real life interview. There are many events, supported by EDF Energy. Many of which are charitable.

Yes

If one would like continual development throughout their working career, then EDF Energy is the company to work for. Ethically and Morally operate appropriately and safety is essential. These three fundamental concepts are at the heart of operations and a collaborative approach is key in achieving success.

Be yourself. As EDF Energy are diverse and will see the positives in everyone. Be prepared, and know some background information.