Engineering Undergraduate Apprentice Review

Currently I work in manufacturing engineering which consists of dealing with engineering issues when things go wrong with the wing manufacture and solving problems. A lot of time is spend inputting data into a computer which is quite monotonous. I go to college one day a week, studying for a degree in aerospace engineering with manufacturing processes. I will move to other placements in quality and design in the future .

New skills I've learned include some software skills. Through my studies I have learned about and developed business and project management, leadership and team player skills. The biggest learning curve is adapting to the working environment and gaining skills in that respect. Learned basic hand skills for the building of aircraft wings.

Mediocre. There are highs and lows. I don't enjoy the large periods of time sat Infront of a computer inputting data but I enjoy the problem solving. Uni is good, I learn a lot and we have a good group of course mates. Occasionally we get to visit our degree provider site in Swansea (usually the course is delivered at college closer to the workplace). These are good fun expenses paid experiences.

I don't. My line manager treats us like children and we have very little interaction with her. However colleagues in the placements are good and valued.

The transition to work after 6 months full time at college was poor, but now it feels structured and you know where the next placement will be. The degree course is well structured and organised because it is laid out from day one what will happen when.

Huge amounts. If you need support it is always there. In the first six months doing a full time college course you get a class tutor who is with you for the full time and they have good knowledged of Airbus and the topics they are teaching. When doing university work all the tutors are knowledgeable and happy to help. The college has all facilities such as counselling service and financial help services but I haven't needed to use them yet.

Not much, you are just left to get on with it, however my placement manager and people I work with have given good support if I need it. However apprentice line manager is not very supportive.

Very well, as housing is cheap in the area and the salary is decent considering what we do and low experience. You get a annual bonus, and opportunity to enrol on the share scheme.

There opportunities that other groups of apprentices take advantage of such as charity challenges and volunteering, however the undergrad engineering apprentices don't get as much chance. There are a few sports teams on site but I havent got involved.

Yes

Because it's a secure job with good career prospects. Apprentices get a decent wage and a good degree with no debt. It's a friendly atmosphere to work in on placement. The degree is a good one and only takes three and a half years despite being part time.

Read all information that is sent to you as it will come up if you get to the interview. Think about how you will answer things and have good knowledge of components of a wing/ your apprenticeship specialism knowledge. Understand the structure of Airbus group by knowing the three main components and their products. Be confident and relaxed.