Aerospace Engineering Degree Apprentice Review

The apprenticeship consists of work placements and university work. The first six months of the course is in a training academy (ASK - Academy for Skills and Knowledge) and time is spent there developing fundamental engineering related skills. A level 2 diploma is completed within the 6 month period. Then there are a series of work placements in different areas of the business with the aim of developing the apprentices skills with regards to the job and working in a professional environment. The final two years are spent specialising into an area of engineering that the apprentice wants to progress in. One day a week in term time is dedicated to college studies which start from level 4 and 5 in a foundation degree and then progress to level 6 for a degree in Aerospace Engineering.

So far I have developed many skills from working in the business. In the first 6 months I developed my time management skills, problem solving skills, interpersonal skills, team working skills as well as expanded my technical knowledge through practical application. Through work placements I have learnt the importance of professional behaviour towards commitments and work that has been set. I have learnt more about the engineering lifecycle and gained the ability to work under pressure.

The programme has been excellent so far. College studies are interesting and enjoyable. The first six months in the training centre were enjoyable especially with the included outward bound week. The varied work placements keep the job interesting as you can learn more and more about the business with regards to the way it is structured and what it does on an international basis.

With regards to college the course is flawless and runs smooth like clockwork. The tutors always make sure to keep us in the loop with key dates such as assignments and exams. I have found the developing practical skills in the first six months is also a good idea as it gives the apprentices time to develop behaviours that are expected from within the business while doing placements.

Support is offered in many different places. Since joining the company there have been opportunities to secure support for a number of reasons. Luckily I haven't required any support for anything but have been assured that it is readily available if necessary. This is important as it creates a safe and reassuring environment and an overall positive workplace.

Tutors from the training provider are always more than happy to help. Support can be sought by email or by asking questions in person during lessons or around the college. All the information about the qualifications is provided before starting each module and we are reminded throughout the course about key information.

I have found many connections recently in my placement that relate to the modules I study for the qualification. The knowledge gained from the training provider means that I can join in with higher level discussions which also means that my colleagues ask me for my opinion on a subject matter more often as they seem confident that I am becoming more competent.

Each year there is a networking event set up for the degree apprenticeship scheme (EDAS). This is an awards ceremony to celebrate those who have achieved qualifications as well as other things outside of work. An outward bound is organised at the start of the apprenticeship which provides apprentices with an opportunity to network and develop skills ready for moving into the workplace.

Yes

I have enjoyed my experience so far and am learning valuable skills and gaining knowledge to enable me to become an engineer in the future. The combination of on the job experience as well as studying for a qualification is excellent. The course is more full time compared to a university course but you soon get used to the working life and still have plenty of opportunities to take time to travel with the added bonus of earning some money while working.

Apply if you have a true passion for the subject of engineering. The company revolves around innovation and new ideas so showcasing this in an interview is important. Doing research about the company and its products will also show that you are keen and want the job. This is the first step in professional commitment and will prove to interviewers that you are the right candidate.