OverHead Lines Craftsperson Apprentice Review

My Role is Apprentice OverHead Lines Craftsperson. On a daily basis, apart from training at the academy, I work with my team at Pentir Overhead Lines Department. While working with the team I have been able to perform a multitude of tasks, varying from spacering in a conductor trolley, replacing the worn/old but vital spacers needed to keep the conductors from damaging eachother. Replacing tension/suspension insulators, applying DReSS earthing to manage induced current. lowering conductors, applying mid-span joint etc. My responsibility as an Apprentice OverHead Lines Craftsperson is to assist the team in anyway I can, while also learning all the necessary skills that I will need to know when I become a Competent Person after my three years in the apprenticeship.

I have learnt many new skills whilst learning/working with Grid. I have been given the opportunity to achieve many qualifications, and attend many internal as well as external training courses that help me better understand my role as well as give me greater experience into a multitude of fields that can help me during my professional Career. I have recently completed the City and Guilds course that will give me a level 3 certificate, I have also received a multitude of certificates from National Grid, specializing in work such as suspension procedures, earthing, spacering, rope work etc. But I believe iv also grown as a person. I believe that my ability to work as a team has grown exponentially, I also believe that due to National Grid I have matured and been able to forge professional relationships with my colleagues.

I enjoy the programme very much. Working with the team at Pentir is a privilege, I have been able to work with one of the best teams in the country and I feel lucky learning from each member of the team. The programme has exceeded my expectations, I did not expect to be placed with a team that is so professional and experienced I feel as if iv been given a grand opportunity working with such fine individuals. I really enjoy working through the programme and have no don't I will enjoy the working life with Grid when the programme is finished.

I feel very valued within Grid. A lot of jobs could not have been completed or even started without me working with Grid. I feel like a vital cog that keeps the team running at full proficiency, for example, most of the team were working away but I was needed to assist two of my other colleagues on a job that required a minimum of three people. without me that job would have been put on hold for weeks in till the team was available again. So in conclusion is feel very vauled.

Structurally the programme is excellent. The induction into Grid lasted two weeks, explaining our roles in great detail as well as what we would be learning. We receive a lot of great support from our lectures, team mates, and managers, giving us advise, help with certain jobs or assignments and assisting us in our learning process ensuring a well organized apprenticeship.

I Receive a lot of support from my training provider via my mentor from site, giving me advise or explaining certain topics to me In a simpler more in depth manner. My lecturers are always ready to help and explain topics I don't understand, or need assistance with. The support is easily accessible, to the point of being an email or a phone call away, giving us guidance on problems at a moments notice.

I Receive a lot of support from my employer via my mentor from site, giving me advise or explaining certain topics to me In a simpler more in depth manner. My lecturers are always ready to help and explain topics I don't understand, or need assistance with. The support is easily accessible, to the point of being an email or a phone call away, giving us guidance on problems at a moments notice.

The salary package meets my cost perfectly, considering that National Grid has one of the best paid apprenticeships in the country, I am very fortunate. National Grid take care of all my travel costs, food costs and living costs, giving us a training academy that gives us a place to stay while we train as well as provides three meals a day and takes care of all fuel costs.

There are many opportunities outside of work, for example, the emails the Academy and resourcing send us giving us the opportunity to help Grid promote the programmes and STEM subjects to possible future candidates. They also allow us to explore the various charity support opportunities the company are involved in such as fund raising for children in need.

Yes

National Grid is an amazing company to work for. I have loved working for them, I have felt so valued and appreciated. Grid have provided me with an enormous opportunity to learn and grow, both professionally and personally. With a chance to gain a job for life, with a great team and great company. Who wouldn't want to join National Grid?

Be honest and be yourself. Grid want to see the real you, the application process for Grid is massive. Over 3000 people in the country applied the same time as me for the spot of 10! 10 individuals around the country out of 3000 managed to obtain a spot, I account this to our extracurricular activities. For example, I was big into my rugby, rock climbing and sailing, as well as being very keen to stay in shape and fit, this shows that there is a social aspect as well as keen attitude for work which Grid are looking for. But above all else, as stated above, be yourself. In interviews they want to see your personality and get to know you. As for assessments days, ensure that if you are given an assignment or notes, that you complete the assignment and revise said notes thoroughly to ensure the best possible learning opportunity.