GTO Apprentice Review

Once qualified, my job title will be 'Gas Operations Technician'. This includes valve maintenance and general repairs to pipework, industrial boilers etc. The section of National Grid that I work for supplies gas to powerstations, so it is vital that we do our job correctly so that they can keep on running. Projects whilst on this course have included projects at college, that have overlapped into work we do onsite that go towards our HNC qualification. This is good as it brings the classroom work together with the practical side.

I have already gained an NVQ level 3 whilst at college, and I am currently working towards my HNC. I have been on numerous internal courses and these have helped me gain a wider knowledge and experiences about National Grid. I have gained skills about the gas industry and I have learned how to deal with customers and external companies. I have learned the job throughout the three years I have been with National Grid so far.

I enjoy the job, as no day is the same and I am constantly learning. The team I work with are extremely helpful and are understanding if I ask them questions about the job. The company culture is brilliant, as they have Health and safety and progression at the forefront. My expectations I had of the company before I started have not only been met, but surpassed. I thoroughly enjoy the job.

Every time I do a good job, my manager will give me praise, which only makes me want to carry on doing a good job. The management will always make me involved with tasks, which makes me feel very valued.

The Induction right at the start of the apprenticeship was very informative, and let us expect what was coming. the training was set out in the programme so that it was most beneficial to us, and we weren't learning things too soon. I always feel I have support from both the team I work with onsite and on the learning aspects. Mentor meetings are on a regular basis (roughly every 3 months) and these put all the people involved with my apprenticeship on the same page. Team delegation is also an important part of this team as different people are better suited to different jobs. overall this programme is very well organised.

I have tutor whilst on site who offers advice and gives feedback to the college and the learning coordinator for National Grid. This helps keep site and the training side of the apprenticeship in the loop. I feel like I can easily and confidently ask for help. The people I work with know that I am learning the job and have a good attitude towards helping me. I enjoy the training.

I receive support from my trainer, learning coordinator, and fellow apprentices. They give me great guidance.

The pay we recieve is a brilliant wage, especially as an apprentice. It covers all costs with plenty left over.

There are plenty of opportunities available and the company rewards you for working in local communities and charities etc..

Yes

Because it's a brilliant course, with a brilliant opportunity at the end and a great wage.

Be yourself and be confident in your abilities. The application process can be pretty long, so keep at it.