Apprentice Review

Mainly shadowing and assisting, sometimes leading a task if I need to for an assignment. these assignments require me to lead, shadow and assist in order to complete tasks for my apprenticeship scheme, and in doing so, all the teams I have been with so far are more than happy to let me do so.

Yes, there are many opportunities to learn a variety of skills within Network Rail, and through the apprenticeship, I have gained many on the electrical side of the railway. these skills are passed down from team members and also learnt from my time during my training, as I have to learn new skills for exams and projects.

I do enjoy the programme, however there is a lot of paperwork to be filled in within the apprenticeship, I feel like this should be spread out rather than given to us towards the end of our apprenticeship. I would definitely recommend the apprenticeship to a family member or friend though.

there is not too much organisation, especially at the start, however I have since sat down with my manager and put together a plan. this plan will now allow me to complete all my tasks that I need to complete in order to finish my apprenticeship successfully at the end of my three years.

my employer will give me all the support I need, however a lot of it I need to find out for myself and then ask for support. I would benefit more if my employer had a list of things I need to complete, or different competencies I can gain thorough the company.

during my time at hms sultan, the place that holds my training, steve willis training and network rail instructors help a lot when preparing for an exam or project, giving us the information and time needed to feel prepared. when at the depot, my team will help me understand day to day tasks.

the qualification I will receive will not only deem me competent to partake in the job I desire, but will also give me a basic knowledge of electrical work, which I will then need to further in order for me to develop and work my way through the company, with the opportunities given to me.

there are not many team building activities and if they are, they need to be organised by individual team members themselves. however on the team building activities I have been apart of, have been a good laugh and have allowed me to become closer to my team, which also benefits us in a working manner.

Yes

As there are many opportunities within Network Rail and there are a wide range of jobs to suit all types of careers. they have the opportunity to either work within offices or get out and get onto the tools, depending on what they prefer, so there is availability for flexible working.

be confident and not afraid to ask questions, people are here and happy to help. when going through the apprenticeship scheme, make sure you complete tasks and work given to you as soon as possible as you will put yourself under stress if left and also it will give you the chance to re-read your work to make sure its the best of its ability.