Vehicle Safety Testing Laboratory Apprentice Review

Working within the vehicle safety testing laboratory I am responsible for ensuring that tests can be completed to deadlines and acquiring the desired results. This can involve machining, fabricating, hand fitting and a variety of other skills to deliver to the requests of designated engineers. I interact daily with a team of workshop personnel, reporting to a supervisor. There is also a need to liaise with engineers to find solutions to problems and attain appropriate information. Occasionally I will be required to contact external parts or material suppliers in order to complete work on time and to specification. I have worked on a number of projects and most notably have created a bespoke piece of tooling to aid with the removal and refitting of a particular part from a new vehicle model in order to progress the testing programme. On a daily basis I will be working to drawings and directions to set up testing rigs and produce components or tooling, whilst also assisting with the preparation of crash testing vehicles by fitting necessary parts.

I have learnt a variety of new skills, beginning with gaining competence on lathes and milling machines. I have developed hand fitting skills and materials knowledge which is directly applicable to the workplace. Achieving academic qualifications to the highest level has increased my engineering knowledge and led me to higher education. Internally I have completed a variety of courses to certify competence on workshop equipment such as cranes and vehicle lifts. Externally I have attended course to develop hybrid vehicle knowledge, alongside risk assessment courses. Being part of a large and thriving business I have developed greater appreciation for the business and feel that as an apprentice I have gained experience which will allow integration into a variety of roles in the future.

The diversity and satisfaction of my work makes the programme extremely enjoyable. I work within an excellent team who have aided and my development and provided me with many opportunities. The company culture is aspiring and supportive to those who are proactive and committed. The programme has exceeded my expectations and I consider my choice to become a Jaguar Land Rover apprentice the best of my life. I thoroughly enjoy all aspects of the apprentice programme and look forward to a successful career within Jaguar Land Rover.

My hard work and dedication has always been recognized and rewarded by many superiors within the company. I am entrusted with complicated tasks and involved with high profile events. Internally I have received recognition for outstanding work and externally I have received awards from my training provider, EEF and the National Apprenticeships Service.

The induction onto the programme was comprehensive and provided me with all necessary information. My training is consistently monitored and help is provided when required. The studying facilities provided by the training provided are of a high standard and cater for the needs of all apprentices. My allocated mentor is readily available to contact and meets with me to review progress on a regular basis. The department supervisor delegates work effectively and as my skills have progressed I have been given more challenging and complex work to complete. The network of hierarchy is clear and well organised to deliver the programme in the most suitable way for both the apprentices and the business requirements.

When required tutors are always available to provide advice and take into consideration that apprentices only have limited time to acquire all necessary information to complete assessments. Their support is readily provided and the attitude of the staff is accommodating. As the majority of the tutors are ex-apprentices and/or experienced engineers, the education is tailored towards progression within the engineering sector. There is an excellent partnership between the company and the training provided that provides an enjoyable place to study.

My apprentice manager and department manager are always supportive and easily contactable, providing quick responses and guidance to overcome obstacles. Human resources are supportive and have provided me with many opportunities to support and promote the Jaguar Land Rover brand. My mentor ensures that any issues are resolved to maintain relationships and guarantee that my apprentice experience is as fulfilling as possible.

The apprentice wage and benefits are far above average and provide me with enough support to travel approximately 500 miles a week to attend both my pace of work and study. I am also able to enjoy many of things I would like to and with a twice yearly increase, I am satisfied that Jaguar Land Rover offer an extremely competitive package. The location is a reasonable distance away, but I consider that this is a sacrifice that has to be made in order to work for a large and successful company within this country.

As an apprentice I have had the opportunity to represent the company on many occasions and meet very high profile figures including political party leaders and HRH the Price of Wales. I have attended many apprenticeship and skills based events to share my story with others and promote apprenticeships. I give my own time to support local schools and colleges to provide careers advice and recruit for the company's award winning apprentice programme.

Yes

Jaguar Land Rover is a rapidly expanding and pioneering company at the forefront of premium automotive design and manufacture. The opportunities are vast and as an apprentice there is an opportunity to develop into a highly employable member of the engineering industry.

Consider all details of the application form and answer questions as fully as possible, relating much of your content to engineering to display problem solving skills and a flare for the industry. Prepare appropriately for interviews and consider why you would want to be an apprentice and your aspirations for the future. During the assessment days, be punctual and consider the opinions of others when working as a team. Work safely and methodically during practical exercises and evaluate the processes to identify any improvements that could be made. If you become an apprentice, be committee to your workplace and to your academic studies. Always manage your reputation and take opportunities presented to further your professional development and raise your profile within the company.