Higher Apprentice - Substation Power Plant Protection and Commissioning Engineer Trainee Review

I am training to eventually become and SAP - senior authorised person. An SAP is responsible for providing a safe system of work to the working party, along with managing projects, budgets and completing / over seeing annual maintenance cycles. This involves on the ground work but also in the office preparation.

- Excellent knowledge of National Grid and UK legislation - Basic mechanical and electrical hand skills - Knowledge of power networks and National Grids contribution - First Aid - Mental Health First Aid - A variety of academic topics in a university environment including: maths, electrical principles, business environment, energy transfer, electro-mechanical principles and the electricity industry

The program has a diverse range of trainers who bring the subjects to life with their enthusiasm. I thoroughly enjoy all aspects of the program, including the academic, on site and training. In my previous apprenticeship, I was not happy and looked for something that would make me passionate - National Grid done this exactly.

The program is very well organised, and we receive lots of information from the new talent development specialists; responsible for our program. They plan the program a year in advance so we always know where we need to be, what we are doing and what time we start. Never had an issue.

I receive excellent support from National Grid from a variety of places: - Line managers at the academy - Team leaders on site - Work place mentor - Employee assistance program - Directory with lots of contacts you can speak to - People I work with - General trainers at the academy - 10 weekly reviews to check I'm OK

I cant fault the level of support we receive from National Grid it is second to none. The planners have a well thought out yearly plan so we always know where we are, with a wide variety of courses squeezed in over the year. If you want a qualification, Grid will get you it.

National Grid provide a variety of training at the academy to ensure you are well prepared for the job. They look at the potential competencies you will need using knowledge taken from people who already do the job, and work to get you to this standard by the end of your time.

There are lots of activities at the academy and outside working times: - Cycling - Fishing pond - Football - Golf - Jogging - Gym - Bar - Lounge including pool, snooker, darts and board games - Sports channels - Quiz nights - Restaurant - Vending machines - A lot more I never feel bored when I'm at the academy as the relationships you build keep you going.

Yes

National grid is a job for life, that will take you anywhere. Since joining the company I've been well paid, feel appreciated in my job and realised how well they look after you. They off benefits that no other company could compete with, including an outstanding pension and share scheme.

You need to do plenty research before applying, as the process can be tough. However people aren't trying to trip you up just push you to do your best. And once you are in you're in, it feels great. Do it and you'll never ever look back.