Manufacturing Apprentice Review

In the first year it is 5 days a week at college learning engineering theory Second year I am currently supporting the shop floor with any engineering queries with a day a week off for college. The apprenticeship also has a rota going on so every x months we will move to a different department.

Yeah, I have learnt have to use a Milling machine and Lathe. I have also furthered my knowledge of engineering, both mechanical and electrical. Following on from this we have been able to expand skills such as communication with people, time management and work ethic which contributes greatly to the job.

I have struggled with the college aspect of the apprenticeship which has caused additional stress in work, I enjoy my job role and the job we are doing in the workplace but the college always looms over. There are also a few parts to the course that seem like pointless tick the box exercises

Theres seems to have been a plan put into place however for x y & z reasons the plan seems to keep getting changed or amended, not always for the best. However they do try not to change there original plan without having a suitable reason to do so i.e change in staff

The employers are always trying to give as much support as possible and helping us get through the apprentice, this is both through making sure we have the correct support and resources at work as well as making sure we are listened to on improvements or complaints about the scheme or college

Little. Unfortunately the college is very unorganized with high staff turn over the course is poorly run and poorly managed. The training provider has known the course from the start at yet seem surprised when we bring up issues i.e timetabling classes. Its and unprofessional and incompetent manner in which to work in.

Little. While it has given me a bit more of an understanding, the practical job roles are entirely different from what we learn at college. In college we learn the general around engineering however we don't lean about what we are actually doing which would involve more people management or task management.

Yes, we are included in the Christmas party's and other social events as well as being offered to run career fare stands. This has allowed us to integrate more with the current workforce as well as feel like we have some form of inclusion in the work place and we aren't "just there"

Yes

Siemens are always trying to improve the apprenticeship scheme to make sure it is as smooth and helpful as possible, therefore if they wish to work for a company which has lots of different avenues as well as supportive then Siemens would be the place to work as they do both of these

Make sure there is some form of passion for engineering before you apply, as this will massively excel you in your job performance. If you struggle with this passion then you may struggle with the job, however this is not an exclusive rule, you can learn to enjoy the job.