Higher Engineering Apprentice Review

For the first 6-9 months of the apprenticeship I was in the LDC (Learning and Development Centre), where I undertook blocks of 2-4 week courses learning fundamental engineering skills. this included CAD (Computer Aided Design), Electronics work, Electrical work and many more. After this, I went out into the business and worked in teams with full time employees and worked on real time projects.

Within the Learning and Development Centre, I picked up a variety of new skills, such as being able to use CAD, how to weld and form sheet metal. Also some skills I found very helpful were picked up in Electronics and Electrical workshops, where I learnt how to wire up lighting circuits (Ring main and Radial), and I learnt how to solder electronic circuits together.

The programme is put together very well, and there is never a time when you don't know what you will be doing next/ currently are doing (due to very good planning). Furthermore, there is plenty of support networks and help available if anything is becoming too hard. Both the LDC and working out in the business is fun as there is a lot of varied work to do, so you don't get bored of repeating the same thing.

I feel well valued by Rolls-Royce. If I do some good work then this is recognised and fed back to my manager. Also, out in the business, I feel like I'm included in the team and the work I am being given is not irrelevant, but instead actually very important- which can be daunting, however everyone is more than happy to help if I'm stuck.

When first joining, it was apparent that they knew exactly what we would all be doing and when and for how long. The programme is very well structured as I know where I will be and where I am meant to be at all times. Mondays are my assigned University days and this works well as then I can dedicate that whole day to uni work and lectures.

Derby University is good in providing you with concise information and they provide lots of help at the start to utilise their facilities to the best of your abilities. Also, if you get stuck on any assignments there is always a reading list for each module which can help aid your understanding of certain topics. Furthermore, you can always email the lecturer, and they will be more than happy to help.

There is a vast network of support that I can access at all times, whether it is over the phone or in person to aid me with any issues. The union can provide a lot of help, however there is more than enough help available within the company, such as safeguarding officers and lines to call.

I currently live at home, and live close to work. So, I find that I don’t have many expenses, and hence my salary is enough. However, I know a few people that rent and have difficulties with money sometimes nearer the end of the month, if they go out too much or make too many long trips back home outside of Derby.

There is a group of people called the AGA (Apprentice and Graduate Association). This group of people hold a variety of sporty, fun and qwerty events every month to bring apprentices together. Events can be from games nights and movie trips to Go-Karting and skiing. Furthermore, they are relatively cheap and are a great way to help you socialise and make new friends.

Yes

It is a huge company and offers some amazing experiences for willing individuals. The apprenticeship is a great way to start your career if you know what it is you want to do. I would definitely recommend it to any willing persons.

I would make sure your CV is up to date and provides great examples of appropriate competencies that you have. Then, before completing the online tets, make sure you do the practice tests over and over until you are sure of what to look out for and do in the real one (as you only get one shot).