Craft Apprentice Review

by Airbus

Best Apprenticeship Employer

Rating

8.5/10

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

Craft Aerostructures Apprentice - • Year 1 - 3.5 days per week in college workshop, learning basic hand skills and safety procedures towards NVQ Level 2; 1 day per week in academic study towards BTEC Level 3. • Year 2-3 - 3 days in Airbus' factory at Broughton, learning a variety of drilling, bolting and other engineering tasks by means of performing different jobs on the wings being manufactured, working towards NVQ Level 3; 1 day per week in academic study towards BTEC Level 3.

9/10

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

I have learned a lot in terms of engineering and health and safety in general, but even more in terms of the aerospace industry specifically. Some basic hand skills have been developed during practical tasks, and an understanding of business, scientific and human factors aspects of the industry learned through academic days.

9/10

3. To what extent do you enjoy your programme?

9/10

4. How well organised/structured is your programme?

8/10

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

9/10

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

8/10

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

7/10

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.)

9/10

9a. Would you recommend Airbus to a friend?

Yes

9b. Why?

Airbus are a good company, offering great opportunities both during and after the training programme. The benefits are good, as is the course itself as a path into the aerospace industry. Even as an older learner - starting the course aged 30 - the support and friendship offered by both college tutors, factory fitters and my fellow learners has made my experience of the apprenticeship up to this point thoroughly enjoyable.

10. What tips or advice would you give to others applying to Airbus?

• Ensure Maths and English Language achieved to a good standard at GCSE or equivalent • Research the company - an idea of what Airbus do, and of their recent achievements in the industry, will help you to prepare for the application process • Have an idea of your point of entry - do you want to start the craft apprenticeship after GCSE, or would you like to do A-Levels and start on the degree apprenticeships that are also available? • Have fun!