Apprentice Designer Review

As an apprentice designer I have a mixture of academic work and practical work in the first year. We have a group of designers and meet the Apprentice Coordinators regularly. We also meet the Heads of Discipline (HoDs) from time to time.

We are studying a mixture of subjects including a Nation Diploma in Engineering and an NVQ. I personally have not learned that much since I have already done a HND in Mechanical Engineering.

The group I have is very friendly and the tutors are generally very good. The company is very supportive and considerate. I enjoy the day-to-day very much.

It is difficult to say since we are not in the workplace yet. This first year is spent in college. The Apprentice Coordinators have expressed to us our importance to the company and I do not feel overlooked or taken for granted in any way.

The programme is very well structured and the induction was very thorough. I do find it a little inflexible for people like myself where our previous qualifications are not taken into account and no credit is given for them.

The support is very good. The training provider is very open, friendly and accommodating.

The employers are also readily available and have time for the apprentices when necessary.

Adequately.

The college organises some events but these are mostly aimed at the younger students. As a mature students there is not much I am interested in.

Yes

Great job in a variety of fields and disciplines, great prospects and a good salary. The business is strong and there will be lots of work in the future.

Be persistent with your applications and be prepared to wait a couple of years to get in.