Engineering Apprentice Review

Daily I usually spend my time shadowing technicians on their routine maintenance checks as well as diagnosing faults and resolving issues such as breakdowns. I am also entrusted with individual tasks that suit my ability and allow my to grow in confidence working individually.

I have increased my confidence when talking to large groups as well as learning new skills to effectively communicate with team members. I have also learnt new technical skills since starting my apprenticeship in the mechanical, electrical and instrument fields in particular.

I really enjoy the programme and look forward to coming into work everyday, I am always busy and leave feeling fulfilled.

I feel that my managers and also colleagues value me as an apprentice and want to help me develop my skills as much as possible.

The programme is laid out at the start of the scheme with a broad outline for each year. So far it has followed the plan and is well organised.

There are tutors from two external colleges that aid me with my academic studies and they can be reached any time by phone or email and when they carry out visits to site. I attend college one day a week which has tuition from many different tutors who can aid my academic work.

My employer is always keen to keep up on my progress and have regular catch ups to ensure I am happy with my own progress and to iron out any issues encountered.

The costs of funding my vehicle (petrol etc) are covered comfortably by my wage.

There have been opportunities to help with local schools careers fairs and evenings to promote apprenticeships. I have also been given the opportunity to become a STEM ambassador to volunteer my time outside of work for promoting STEM careers to school children

Yes

I feel I have been developed as a person since joining GSK academically, technically and personally. I feel much more confident in my own abilities and my ability to communicate with others and large groups has increased.

Prepare well for you interview and stay calm. Try to be as honest as possible with your personal statement but try to sell yourself at the same time!