Business Engineer Apprentice Review

I am a Business Engineering Apprentice. My day-to-day job includes a variety of things such as dealing with installations, fault finding and planning lines over the network. I meet and work with many different people everyday depending on the location I am based in. I have had the opportunity to work in big places like White Hart Lane (Spurs football ground) and even working close with Transport For London.

Since I have started my apprenticeship, I have learnt many new valuable skills. Being hands on in the field has really helped me adapt these skills and also helps very well when it comes to studying for the qualifications. The qualifications I will receive are globally recognized and very advanced. I have developed existing personal skills such as time management and how to act professional when needed.

I really do enjoy the programme I am currently on as not everyday is the same. One day I could be dealing with a very minor fault find whereas on another, I could be involved in a big project that supplies thousands of customers. The group of people I work closely with are fantastic and very knowledgeable when it comes to this job. The programme so far has definitely met my expectations and I am enjoying everyday.

I feel very valued by Virgin Media. They do not see me as an apprentice, they see me as one of the team. I get the same amount of respect as a senior member of staff would in the company. This shows by the responsibilities given to me by the team and being recognized for my work through award nominations and winning one myself!

Initially the structure of the programme was not very satisfactory. However this was completely changed around once identified and is now very well organized and a lot more structured. Training sessions are always booked in advance and supported by local mentors and tutors. An apprentice road map has now been introduced which shows you were you should be sitting and what your aims are which is brilliant.

I receive so much support from the training provider. This includes conference calls, emails and the occasional meet up to see my progress. My tutor/adviser is very friendly and is literally 1 phone call away if I ever need some help or advice. The training provider makes sure that they go out of their way to provide us with the best support possible in order for us to pass the apprenticeship.

Again I receive a lot of support from my employer. They strive in making sure that all staff are happy and satisfied in their job role. I have a local mentor who I shadow when it comes to some work who is very helpful and answers all questions I have. My line manager is always available to help as well and we get the opportunity to sit down once a month and discuss any problems I am facing as well as disusing my progress so far in the business.

Many people assume that an apprentice has a very low wage to start off with however I can confidently say that in this company, they are wrong. The salary definitely meets my expectations and increases every year. You get given a company van so fuel costs are cut completely which is a massive bonus as well as many different company benefits to help you save some money!

Yes there are many different opportunities outside of work. These include things such as helping raise money for charity and working with so many different people. Company events such as Christmas parties in very nice venues. There's opportunities to play sports with fellow colleagues and compete in tournaments. There are also award ceremonies that are held to show recognition for colleagues.

Yes

The reason I would recommend Virgin Media is because it provides a professional career without having to be someone you are not. The company accepts everyone from different backgrounds and believes in them to succeed. The company give off a professional yet relaxed atmosphere which I find is the best way for people to excel and enjoy the job role they are doing. You get some great benefits working for Virgin and as stated before you are very valued to the company.

The best advice I can give to someone applying is to just be yourself. The company want to hire someone who they see great potential in, not someone who impresses easily. The application process may seem a bit daunting initially however Virgin just want to see you enjoying yourself and being confident. It is a very great opportunity so grab it both hands and give it your best shot!