Engineering Higher Apprentise Review

I am a level 4 Engineering higher apprentice. I am currently in the SDC (Skills Development Center) learning basic skills such as bench fitting, mechanical skills and basic electrics. I attend college every Tuesday at CEMAST college where I am studying a HNC in engineering. However, after Easter time, I will start to do placements where I go out into the business and start working.

Yes. During my time in the SDC (Skills Development Center), I have built upon my existing skills such as; teamwork, communication, and time management. I have also developed new skills during his time. These include; using machinery for the first time, learning how to operate a manual lathe and milling machine amongst the other tools/machinery/equipment.

I enjoy my apprenticeship thoroughly. I get to come into work and learn new things everyday and get to work with a good group of people. I also enjoy interacting with the other higher apprentices as we all have varying backgrounds and experiences. And that is why I enjoy it.

The program is very well structured with clear communication about what we are doing and when we are doing it. The only problem that I will mention is we had problems early on trying to get naval base passes for everyone of the apprentices. We also experienced a problem between BAE Systems and CEMAST where there was a bit of a communication error.

We receive a lot of support from both the instructors in the SDC (Skills Development Center) as well as the management team. I feel as if we can ask any of them for any guidance on work related problems as well as any real life issues. I also feel safe when I am at work because of the level of guidance and support.

We receive a lot of support from both the instructors in the SDC (Skills Development Center) as well as the management team. I feel as if we can ask any of them for any guidance on anything related to our qualifications. This allows me to build my confidence relating to my work/qualifications.

I feel as if I can perform better in my role because of the guidance and support that the instructors, teachers and training provider gives me. This is important because it allows me to be safe at the workplace and allows me to feel safe knowing that I am in good hands.

Yes. There are many extra curricular activities that we can get involved in. These include; the Royal Navy Challenge, Outward Bound (a team building outdoor experience) and the possibility to further your education the include a HND after your apprenticeship which is level 5. This HND is fully sponsored and could be completely avoided but instead moving straight to a degree.

Yes

The overall experience with all the problems of getting peoples Naval Base Passes, and the miscommunication between CEMAST and BAE Systems, has been very good and I am enjoying my apprenticeship thus far. I am also enjoying the fact that I am building my qualifications whilst earning a salary and getting valuable work experience. This gives you an upper hand if you decide to move on from BAE after your apprenticeship ends.

I would say be honest and don't lie in your application. If you do get invited to an assessment day, be confident and do your research beforehand. This is very important to the process as it allows you to seen confident and knowledgeable. I would also say that it is important that you read the application form thoroughly to make sure that the apprenticeship is for you.