Apprentice Review

As an apprentice my sole role is to learn and contribute whatever i can to the group i work in. This involves helping with paperwork as well as more practical elements, such as earthing up and filling in patrol sheets. I have to fill in a daily diary accounting each days work.

I have learnt many new skills on the apprenticeship. These involve electrical work like crimping and domestic wiring and mechanical work like refurbishing points machines. I have also learnt about overhead lines and the types of work that are carried out on it, i have learnt how to apply local earths, check the overall condition and much more

I enjoy the fact i am getting paid whilst learning, everyone is very approachable and has a good attitude which makes day to day working life very enjoyable. We have good banter but know when to be serious to get the job done. I also like the fact that there isnt too much pressure

I spent the first 6 months of my program at a residential training centre which well planned out and fit together well. However since joining depot i feel there is a lack of communication between apprenticeship staff and normal depot staff, causing some issues with planning and the rest of my apprenticeship

At depot everyone is very supportive and will go out of their way to help me when i need it, however i do think it is important to have an element of independence during the apprenticeship in order to progress better. However the senior managers dont seem to be as keen to help

Babcock arent the best providers and the amount of support varies from teacher to teacher. Some offer great support and will use there own time to help you, but others wont give you any time out of class which is bad for the less able students that i have come across.

The babcock element of the apprenticeship does not help you at all to perform better in your role. However, the network rail training helps you to progress in your role and learn more about job specific elements which will benefit your future. Im yet to start alot of the qualifications.

During the first 6 months at the training centre, there were many activities to do with other apprentices, involving sports, quizzes, games etc. This has dropped off at depot though as i am not around other apprentices anymore, this is one area to be imporved in my personal opinion.

Yes

It offers a great choice of career paths that will be well paid at the end of it. The pension scheme is one of the best and it is good we can start paying into it at such a young age, contributing to our futures. It is also a great laugh

Be yourself and expect to be challenged in some areas. Living away for 6 months is easier for some people than others do you must be dedicated and willing to travel as training coursed are dotted around the country. Have fun and be grateful for the opportunity to work for a good company.