Manufacturing Engineering Apprentice Review

At the moment I am in my second year which consists in 3 months placements around MINI Plant in Oxford. I go around the different locations and get a chance to work on a variety of jobs along the maintenance team. I then have to write logbooks about these jobs to show my development.

During the apprenticeship so far I have been able to learn a range of new skills and also develop previous existing skills. I am constantly facing new challenges where I have to research and go after information that I dont know and this provides me an opportunity to learn new and more skills.

I enjoy working in an engineering environment where I can develop skills and knowledge in the area. To be in constant development towards what I chose for my career I feel accomplished which makes me enjoy the programme more. Some of the areas we work at are more exiciting than others where we get a chance to work in breakdowns and projects.

It is organised to a certain extend. There is room for improvement in this area but it is good to see that managers and teachers are constantly changing how the programme is structured looking for ways to improve. Apprentices also get a chance to give their input in regular meetings.

BMW Group is a great company to work for on this topic. They provide all sorts of assistance and support, be it health care needs or even teaching for students with more needs in a certain area. Managers can be understanding and look at individuals needs, this is more noticiable after the first year when you get to work more closely with managers.

The qualification is offered by Birmingham Metropolitan College which has a number of staff based inside our Plant which is very convenient. We have regular reviews where we have a chance to say our opinion and be listened. They provide extra teaching for those who need as well as guidance throughout the programme.

The qualifications I study help me understand the theory behind the manual work and the machines used in the Plant. This means that I have an extra knowledge that can assist me in being better at my job and in the future can be the difference when getting a promotion or even getting me through a problem I would otherwise not resolve.

The company is constantly trying the encourage extra-curricular activities such as sports and social activities. I have had a chance to work in an open evening for potential new apprentices where I had a chance to talk to possible applicants. There is also a range of activities such as sports that are linked to raising money for charities and we get a chance to participate.

Yes

The apprenticeship is a great chance to study and learn at the same time as working in the field. I believe it provides a better career path to only studying (such as universities) and prepares the candidate better. Being paid as you study is also a benefit which allows for a personal life development as well.

Be prepared to face challenges and learn new skills. There is a lot of learning in the the programme that needs to be used in the daily basis of the job. Be prepared to be independent but also to work within teams. Be prepared to work in important projects and to influence the development of the company.