Opperations apprentice Review

During the apprenticeship you move around the entire factory. In doing this you gain experience across many jobs. On a day to day basis, you are tasked with watching a skilled man complete his build/ work and also sometimes carry out the build. You also are sent on career events to assist the company.

I have learnt new skills throughout my apprenticeship such as mechanical and electrical engineering skills. For mechanical skills I have learnt all basic fitting techniques. I have also learnt some maintenance skills during my time as an apprentice. Not only have I learnt this, I have developed the skill of group speaking and confidence.

I did not totally enjoy the programme, this is due to many reasons. One main reason being how it is structured. you are told that you can pick what area you would like to exist the scheme on but this is not true. you get put wherever they want you to go. However there was good moments.

The scheme is not very well organised and placement moves and training is left until last minute. This is due to the lack off communication between people within the company. College is also the exact same, the structure is terrible. All throughout the scheme there is not much organization at all.

The employer does actually give you a lot of support throughout the scheme which is good. Especially with home life issues or on going illnesses. There is a onsite occupational health and a doctor that comes in every few weeks for if there is any issues. They support you to get the best work life balance possible.

Our training provider is Wigan and Leigh college Paige field centre and they are terrible. They provide as little support as possible throughout the entire scheme. The quality of the teaching is below average which leads to students falling behind on course work and sometimes means they miss deadlines which effects grades.

I feel that my qualifications have given me a basic understanding of engineering. This has helped to assist me in my current job role. However I do not believe that it has helped me perform much better. The qualification we complete are more theory based and not very practical, and our job is practical.

At MBDA the only extra curricular activities we have is the charity team. Anyone can join this team and they aim to help raise money for multiple charities by arranging events such as go karting, cake sales and a charity football tournament. We do not have any sports teams at the Bolton site but do in Stevenage.

No

I simply would not recommend the company due to the enjoyment of the job. The job is very repetitive and boring. However, even though the job is not interesting and you do not get the chance to move onto a different job for variety, the company does have a very competitive salary and also good benefits.

My tip for applying to MBDA is to make sure you are well presented and speak clear and confidently. Make sure that you dress smart and have polished shoes. I would also suggest doing your research on the company and its history as this will benefit you when in the interview.