Engineering Apprentice Review

by Science and Technology Facilities Council (STFC)

Rating

9.1/10

1. Please give an overview of your role and what this involves on a day-to-day basis:

I was in college full time for my first year where I gained an appreciation of a lot of different engineering types such as; electrical, maintenance and fabrication. back at plant I will be working alongside engineers of all backgrounds to produce and assemble projects.

9/10

2. Have you learnt any new skills or developed existing skills?

I have learnt a lot from the training centre I was placed at and they have helped me improve my practical skills. there are also many learning opportunities along the may from small workshops and lectures offered at Daresbury to completing a degree with them.

10/10

3. To what extent do you enjoy your programme?

The environment is clean and people are nice on site. I have enjoyed my time at the college learning all the new skills I have required.

8/10

4. How well organised/structured is your programme?

The company is organised and everyone is willing to help you. I am able to contact my managers easily and if I have any queries my apprentice coordinator will sort them.

10/10

5. How much support do you receive from your employer?

The support for our studies is very good. They are willing to give us time through the day if we need to catch up on work or have exams/deadlines coming up. throughout the workplace I have been supported well. I know if I ask anyone for help they would help me. My line manager is easy to talk to and I know if I have a problem he will help me to sort it.

9/10

6. How much support do you receive from your training provider when working towards your qualifications?

When you go to the training provider you get assigned a training officer who will meet with you every 4 weeks and ensure everything is going well. The course content can be difficult but if you ask lecturers they will gladly help you.

9/10

7. How well do you feel that your qualification (through your training provider) helps you to perform better in your role?

a lot of the skills I have learnt through the training provider I will not use in my work but it is handy to have them and I have enjoyed gaining the appreciation. Other qualifications help me understand the design and theory behind it all.

8/10

8. Are there extra-curricular activities to get involved in at your work? (For example, any social activities, sports teams, or even professional networking events.)

Yes, there is a gym on site and often clubs such as a jogging club that run at lunch times. Alternatively we often have lecturers who will come and give a seminar which can be really interesting

10/10

9a. Would you recommend Science and Technology Facilities Council (STFC) to a friend?

Yes

9b. Why?

I think that STFC is a good company to work for and has helped me improve myself. there are lots of learning opportunities and benefits. the work environment is also very clean and friendly.

10. What tips or advice would you give to others applying to Science and Technology Facilities Council (STFC)?

All the projects can be overwhelming when you first start them, the science behind it is fascinating but can also be confusing, you will get used to the science. also ensure you research about the labs and demonstrate how you would be an asset to the team.