Toolmaker Apprentice Review

The role of a Apprentice Toolmaker is to learn the role of a Toolmaker. Day-to-day tasks within the toolroom, as an apprentice, include but are not limited to learning and practicing the techniques required to maintain press tooling. As a second year apprentice, a day release to college is part of the working week.

From moving from full time college in the first year to the toolroom in the second year, the techniques and practices used within the toolroom are slowly becoming part of the skill set required for the job role. These skills include reverse engineering, machining, welding and general tool maintenance processes.

The apprenticeship is very enjoyable. Every day is different when in the toolroom as an apprentice is always learning and this helps to keep the job interesting. The week is broken up by a day at college which allows for more variety during the working week. The team who deliver the training are very approachable which makes it easy to ask questions if required.

The programme is well organised starting at the beginning with the application process and all the way through the 4 year apprenticeship. The application process can be long but a worthwhile process to gain a place on this apprenticeship. Once started, the programme offers educational training and regular job related training outside the mandatory course training provided.

There is a huge amount of support provided by the company. Should there be any issues, these are resolved quickly and where required, a plan is put in place to help. Weekly meetings with training staff are carried out to check on progress through the apprenticeship programme and to keep everyone up to date with information from the company.

The training provider is great at providing support when working towards qualifications. They deliver the training in line with what is required by the qualification. The course tutors are easy to talk to and are able to relate the training within college to the job role therefore sometimes making it easier to understand.

The qualifications gained through this programme allow for the build up of background knowledge which helps to understand what is required in the job role. The qualifications contain job relevant tasks that help to gain the skills that can be transferred into the workplace, that can be improved upon and developed.

The company run many events and activities such as school open events, college open evenings to promote the company and the apprenticeship programme in particular. There are many opportunities to travel within the company in the form of placements being offered in various different locations world wide within the business.

Yes

The company is a great place to work and the opportunities they provide are far above those provided by similar companies. It should be noted that the application process is long but if successful in gaining a place on this apprenticeship programme, the long application process is very much worth while.

Tips for the application process include, be prepared for the process to take a while as it takes time to find the right people for the job. The assessment days are when the company first meet you and this is where first impressions count. When it comes to an interview, relax, keep calm and just be yourself.