Higher Apprentice - System Operator Review

On this scheme you do 3 month placements around the National Grid System Operator. This involves power system planning, commercial operations and control system support. You might get given projects to help the team on your placement and given responsibility to conduct it to benefit the team.

I completed a foundation degree in electrical power engineering. Many other qualifications such as BESC, power point skills, working from heights, communication skills and excel skills to name a few.

The scheme is very enjoyable because you consolidate your learning at uni in the office. You also become part of the teams within NG and it's great to be apart of that. It went beyond my expectations.

After completing the scheme you feel like a valued member of staff because of the bespoke training you've had. Being on the higher apprenticeship scheme comes with a sort of "status" as people know you've learnt such great things on the programme.

The induction was poorly organised but everything on the course was well organised. It took them a long time to give you your timetable which didn't allow much time for personal planning.

Aston University were really poor with supporting students. National Grid academy were always good with support. However it was often hard to get in contact and get information from the Academy.

The managers in my office were always helpful. They gave you support if you needed it.

National Grid are very generous and this is a great pull factor to the scheme. It was amazing to be able to earn a great wage and be able to claim back food and other expenses while training off site.

There are always volunteering opportunities at career events. There are also social clubs like a football team and sailing club. Some selected people get to go to represent NG at other big award events as well.

Yes

It's a great scheme and a great business to work for. They look after you as an employee very well and help you to develop to whatever you desire.

Be positive and enthusiastic. It's a great opportunity to get a degree and earn at the same time. It's a challenging scheme and the salary reflects that. If you're keen to work hard for an amazing opportunity then this is the scheme for you.