Apprentice Review

The apprenticeship involves a 9 month period in college, 9 month in a training centre followed by 11 month on rotation around the different departments in the workplace followed by a 19 month period in a chosen 'home' department.

the apprenticeship develops different skills throughout the course. In college, you learn the basic knowledge of what it takes to be an engineer such as using mathematics and mechanics to help solve problems. During the training centre period, you learn practical skills of a engineer. these include how to use a milling machine and a lathe, as well as developing hand skills in fitting. On rotation, apprentices get the opportunity to work within the facility and experience what its like on the job. You learn what goes into the business and how to complete jobs with the use of observing and helping out. In the final stage of the apprenticeship, you learn how to complete a job and gain competence within that area.

So far within the Siemens apprenticeship programme, I have enjoyed my experience with the chance to learn on the job whilst gaining experience within the workplace.

At times within the business, I feel I am a valued member of the company however on some occasions it fells like you can be in the way sometimes or get pushed to the side.

the programme is set up on a timetable and you are issued one at the start of the apprenticeship. This shows what you will be completing at each stage of the apprenticeship and allows you to prepare for the coming jobs.

Support from the training provider is always there when needed. Whilst on rotation, you are always occupied and can always ask questions a\t any point. The training centre is also always there if any questions are needed to be asked.

The employer and the training centre work very closely with each other therefore I feel like the question above is also applicable for this one as well.

The salary at this stage of the apprenticeship is good and is above average compared to other apprenticeships. However within the apprenticeship programme there are facility apprenticeships and field apprenticeships. For some reason the programmes get paid significally different amounts as the programme goes on, even though the participation within the job is very similar therefore this is a negative.

Within the company, there are opportunities to join in with charity work and the company allows this to happen within work time for a short period of time. There are also other activities such as football games and training.

Yes

The company invests within apprentices and would rather give opportunities to improve than get others in to take a job role. This allows for improvement and constant development. The company also has a relaxed environment and is good to work in

Take time when applying and answering questions as there is no time limit to answer. The company would appreciate a well thought answer. Always present yourself in a manner to learn and wanting to improve.