Substation Higher Apprentice Review

Our role is made up of three separate stages; on-site training, off-site training and university foundation degree. On-site training consists of searching for jobs that are applicable for our logbook which is a set of activities that occur on site that we must take part in before the end of our apprenticeship. Off-site training occurs at the training center at Eakring. This consists of training for safety, training for authorisations and hands on electrical and mechanical courses. The university degree occurs at Aston university where I complete a foundation degree in electrical power engineering in two or three week blocks over a two year period

I have learnt new skills in all three areas of my course. During on-site training I have learnt about the different pieces of equipment on-site, their functions and how some of them are maintained and isolated from the system for their maintenance. During off-site training I have learnt how to wire an MCB and a two way light, while also learning how an engine works through taking it apart and understanding the different components functions. During my foundation degree I have learnt some basic electrical principles along with electro-mechanical systems

I enjoy my time in all three areas of my program as it allows for a broad range of learning through the varied program and areas of the company we experience. All of the staff are welcoming and helpful. They provide us with all of the aid we need to complete all areas of our course

The program is very well structured as it provides me with a wide range of areas to learn and grow in. There is a fantastic mix of classroom based learning and hands on learning making us very well rounded individuals appropriately experienced for our future job roles that we will undertake upon leaving the apprenticeship.

My employer provides adequate support for all areas of my job, there are extra sessions put on at university if I am struggling to understand concepts. Trainers during off-site training also provide fantastic support for lesser experienced people who are new to a lot of the concepts and the ways jobs are undertaken with regards to things like drawings of circuits and the functions of equipment.

My employer is providing me with good support for my qualifications by providing me with extra sessions when I do not understand certain concepts, they also have an external part of the university that can help with maths and essay writing. They also offer the option to pay for a tutor if you deem it necessary.

My qualification provides me with a fantastic understanding of the underlying principles of how the substation works. The degree also helps us learn transferable skills such as time management, presentation skill, organising skills and self confident which aid me in all areas of life including what I do in my day to day job.

While completing off site training there are many leisure facilities around the site to get involved with. There is a sports court available with football and basketball pitches. There is a fishing lake available all year round for any keen fishers. There is also a gym available and mountain bikes for the surrounding areas.

Yes

They are a company that really looks after their employees in every way from their mental and physical health to their career opportunities. They provide a great option to move up the ladder within the company and gain qualifications for yourself to raise your own profile. The staff at the company are also very helpful and welcoming.

As long as you work hard during your job, manage your time well and ask for help whenever you need it you will be very successful during your time at the company. Make sure you feel capable of completing the degree as it is not easy but certainly possible if you work hard.