apprentice heavy vehicle technician Review

as an apprentice, my role is to watch and learn from fellow qualified technicians and fulfil the tasks set out by my peers. day to day I do what is asked and expected of me. daily tasks often involve sweeping and tidying the workshop to ensure an efficient working environment. routine servicing and maintenance on heavy vehicles is also a common fixture to my day.

working here, I have developed my ability to work with others, working with a partner or in a team has allowed me to develop my communication skills. working practically has also allowed me to improve my manual dexterity skills through effective use of tools found in repair tasks on heavy vehicles

in essence, I believe the daf apprenticeship programme is one of the best apprenticeship programmes in the trade, it allows apprentices' to learn at their own rate under close supervision from mentors or peers. it is a prime opportunity for me to extend my knowledge on heavy vehicles and learn new skills which I have found enjoyable thus far.

the programme is well structured. targets are set by both my tutors at college and my skill net skills coach to ensure my progress is tracked in accordance to the stages of my course. every stage in my course is a adapted to modules to make learning all the topics easier to remember without bombarding me with masses of information at one given time.

the employer is very hands on. I receive monthly reviews to be given the opportunity to discuss my progress at college as well as in the workshop, I am also given targets for progress in the workshop set by both the manager and my mentor to ensure that I am tested. I feel comfortable knowing where to seek support and who to ask.

every two months, my skill net training coach pays a visit to me to review my progress. During these visits I often submit practical work in the form of job cards, if there is any work outstanding that needs to be completed, it is highlighted. if I ever need any additional help, I feel confident enough to contact my coach

during my time on this apprenticeship, Both DAF and skillet have pushed me to achieve what is expected of me in my respected job role. the support and supervision given to me is encouraging. skill net allow me to work at my own pace allowing me to maintain a steady flow of work without stressing myself out.

there are no extra curricular activities as such, however DAF stages annual competitions like the apprentice of the year and technician of the year that span across the entire daf dealer network. in these competitions, technicians are asked to complete a series of advanced assessments where the technician with the highest marks are asked to undergo practical assessments at the training centre in thame. prizes and incentives range from vouchers to all expenses paid trips to the daf factory in eindoven.

Yes

imperial commercials is one of the leading dealerships and workshops for all things concerning heavy vehicle in the uk. although primarily specialising in DAF systems and components, imperial sees a wide range of vehicle makes and models in for maintenance and servicing allowing you to familiarise yourself with all truck franchises.

before applying I would suggest doing research into the trade and the DAF franchise in order to gauge whether this is the right career path for you. Although knowledge and understanding of mechanical systems is not necessary, a keen interest in the job with the willingness to learn is desirable.