Technical Apprentice Review

My Current role as an apprentice on the technical apprenticeship scheme involves me working within the Quality Assurance department, I liaise with other members of the company at different levels ensuring that the company is following the correct procedures and standards. I am currently responsible for 10 different projects which I manage independently.

Whilst being an apprentice at Leonardo I have learned many new Skills, these include: 3D Modelling - Creo Parametric Circuit Design - Mentor Graphics Python Excel SAP Communication Windchill Reliability I have been on many training courses regarding Auditing to ensure that internal Audits are done to the same standards as external auditors.

Coming into the apprenticeship I expected the work environment to be a competitive and hostile environment, working at Leonardo I can see my expectations were wrong, The environment is very friendly and everyone supports each other to reach a common goal. Colleagues have taken time out there day to help me develop my skills to become a key member of the business.

As an apprentice at Leonardo I feel that I am a valued member of the team, I receive a lot of praise for my contributions to the company from senior members of staff and management, and have a good reputation throughout the company. I believe I have the reputation as I can manage the Quality Assurance for 10+ projects independently and those working within the projects respect my opinion.

The Apprenticeship programme is well structured and allows apprentices to explore different working environments within the business to fined their preferred role. Apprentices change placement/working environment every 3 months during there 4 year scheme, they are given a full year at college and then1 day a week after that with an option to do a HNC if the business case is made. The Company offers a mentoring scheme for employees to help develop apprentices professionally,

During my apprenticeship the training provider for my BTEC Level 3 was PROCAT college, they did not reach my expectation with the quality of teaching, with constant staff changes to loss of work they failed to deliver a quality education. Once I started my HNC at PROCAT college I had a dedicated teacher who supported the class through the course and was passionate about teaching I enjoyed this course the most during my time at PROCAT.

My apprenticeship managers has been supportive throughout my career at Leonardo, offering guidance and opportunities to improve myself to be a valued member of the team. The HR team has been supportive of my Illness and offered support if it ever became necessary. During Apprenticeship review meetings with managers and HR any issues we raise the managers take the opportunity to help us.

The salary from the Leonardo Apprenticeship scheme fully covers the travelling costs to and from the company as well as daily living costs. the Location is convenient near Bus routes and relatively close to train stations. The salary is a competitive rate to other apprenticeship schemes but the flex time is a key benefit.

Leonardo is currently having many company events to boost the morale of the business, these help apprentices with networking opportunities. Leonardo supports Combat stress and there is many opportunities to get involved with the charity committee to raise money for this cause. Leonardo Also offers Italian courses to help with those travelling to other sites over seas, and provides discounts to local stores and amenities.

Yes

Leonardo is a friendly and supportive work environment to be a part of, Leonardo has supported my development and career over the past four years to ensure that I am a capable member of the team, As a young person this is key to developing skills to ensure the ability to move up within the business or in another business.

I would ensure that you come prepared to the interview and show you are a logical thinker in the way you present yourself, Research the company to show you have an understanding of what the company does and who the customer is, The Application process consist of mini tests so you should be prepared with a calculator and pad.