Apprentice Review

I work as a technical apprentice which means that I undertake 6 different placements within technical roles. These include design, manufacturing engineering, support, testing placements as well as two craft placements - one mechanical and one electrical. I speak to employees, supervisors, managers and internal/external customers on a daily basis. This can be via face to face contact, email, telephone etc. I assist on many different projects which can range from technical drawings, high security documents etc. I have just completed my craft placement where I was based in 302 final assembly marrying up the front fuse of the Eurofighter Typhoon to the Centre Fuse.

Yes I have gained so much aircraft specific knowledge and skills, as well as developing personal skills such as team work, confidence, working independently. I have also gained technical skills such as reading drawings and planning, using complex computer programs and databases and mathematical and ITskills. I have received first aid training.

I love my programme. I really enjoy work. I enjoy the tasks I do and all the placements I have done, as well as the people I work with and meet on a daily basis. I love working on live aircraft, and find that the whole job role and work we do is exciting and different. I have had to leave my comfort zone so many times during my apprenticeship, and have found some things intimidating and new, but I feel the team I work with constantly supports me, and working outside my comfort zone has abled me to learn new skills as well as build my confidence.

As an apprentice, I feel incredibly important. The company puts high value on the apprenticeship scheme, and are keen to listen to the views and opinions of the new people within the company. Managers and training school staff are always looking to improve things and keep apprentices involved with current and new projects. I am student representative for the union and my college class, and feel that our opinions and contributions are valued.

I feel the programme is reasonably well structured. I know what my college education consists of, and where it is heading. With regards to my placements I know what type of placement I am doing, and roughly when, but I don't find out specific information until nearer the start time.

A lot of support.

A lot of support

I'm a single parent with my own house to run and so I am grateful that we receive a higher rate of pay that most apprenticeships.

Yes, we are offered so many extra opportunities, from educational and work based opportunities, to charity work and sports group.

Yes

They are one of the best companies within Britain to be working for. The rates of pay are competitive, the apprentice scheme is invaluable beneficial and the work is exciting and relevant.

Get as much experience as possible and think about how you can benefit the company - what can you bring to the team?