Materials laboratory apprentice Review

I am a specialist science materials laboratory apprentice, I have now been out on placements in the business for over a year after finishing my initial workshop and business training. My job varies day to day however laboratory roles focus on identifying the source of problems and working to develop new methods or ideas to combat these issues. In one day I may only be talking to my team about smaller jobs or I could be in meetings with manufacturing engineers from other areas of the company.

I have both learnt many new skills and developed existing skills, when working in the workshop I learnt how to machine and fabricate products which are useful skills both inside and outside of work. i have completed a BTEC in my first year and have also been completing a Degree in materials engineering since i began.

I really enjoy my program, some days work may be slow but in every placement i have been on the people that i have worked with have been great and when i get a task that is important it is always really interesting. the program exceeded my expectations i would recomment it to anyone thinking of doing an apprenticeship rather than attending university.

I have done multiple important projects since i have been working in the company, all of which have made me feel extremely valued when considering the appreciation from not only my manager but my apprenticeship development leader and many other contacts within the business. i have always felt valued.

at first the program had a slightly rocky start as some things regarding the degree had not been confirmed and regarding the training however after the initial small issues the program has been really well organised and it has been easy to follow.

Rolls-Royce offer so much support, when you have an issue it is always taken into account and things can be changed in order for this issue to have less of a negative effect regardless of what it is. the accesibility of support is easily accesible and guidance is always offered.

My salary does not meet my costs very well, i feel that the apprentices for the first part of the apprenticeship are underpayed as my costs often outweighed my salary when taking into acount living costs and travel costs.

there are many oppurtunities including company events, the apprentice and graduate association, many rolls-royce sports clubs and leisure activities as well as a rolls royce leisure and activity cente. i mainly play rugby for the rolls-royce RFC team.

Yes

my experience overall has been very positive i have felt valued and that people genuinely care about what i have to say or improvements that i have proposed. the benefits of an apprenticeship here greatly outweigh those of a degree in my opinion.

Be calm and confident on your assesment day, it is not only about your grades on paper, they also want someone who performs well in the interview and that they will like personally not only for their grades. take every oppurtunity you can whilst you are on your apprenticeship as it will benefit you massively when you come out of your apprenticeship.