Mechanical Maintenance Apprentice Review

by AWE

Rating

2.2/10

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

When in the academy, you don't get a chance to learn your job role. They only let you take apart small pieces of equipment that is broken.

2/10

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

I have only learnt skills when out on site and learning through my other peers. Not when in the academy. I actually found out that most of the 'skills' I learned in the academy, were in fact wrong.

2/10

3. To what extent do you enjoy your programme?

The job has been eye opening, and not to what I believe is good. I have personally not had a great time during this apprenticeship and would not recommend to people.

1/10

4. How well organised/structured is your programme?

The structure is appalling. From the start, you never get given a clear structure of the jobs you need to complete so you always feel like you are 'behind' your peers instead of learning with them.

2/10

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

I initially had great support, then that manager left early on. After this, I have experienced bullying and been treated horribly.

1/10

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

I received support from my college through my tutor, not the head of engineering though.

3/10

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

I don't feel like the qualification I gained through college had anything to do with my job role at all. It is great to have, but doesn't link to my job role.

4/10

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.)

I have previously tried to get involved, but my manager pulled me out without warning as they only wanted me to do work within the academy.

3/10

9a. Would you recommend AWE to a friend?

9b. Why?

The apprenticeship itself could be fantastic. But the way it is running, it does not help people or make them feel happy. Especially with Covid,. we are being blamed for not finishing our apprenticeship on time even though some people were not on site at ranging from 8 months off, to over 14 months. I have experienced bullying and would not recommend to anyone solely on this basis.

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

The pay is okay compared to other apprenticeships. But if you are looking to come here not straight from school, be prepared that it can be incredibly patronising.