Toolmaker Engineer Review

The toolmaker apprenticeship involves maintaining and repairing the die set tools at plant Swindon. This will include jobs such as grinding, bedding in, machining, drilling and many more. As a 3rd year apprentice, I currently get an expirence of all the major toolmaking bays in the factory and therefore get an understanding of the toolmaking role around the factory.

I have learnt many new skills during my time in the apprenticeship. I have developed with my machining ability far from school. I have learnt new and traditional toolmaking skills such as MIG welding, hand grinding and precision drilling. I have also developed my presentation skills and work ethic.

I enjoy my apprenticeship very much overall. The work can be difficult but the reward of completing the job to a good standard is very beneficial. I have had the opportunity to meet many different people who have given me advice on my trade and shown me different perspectives and different roles in the company

The programme is very well done. And keeps a steady work flow while also giving a chance to learn. The work is challenging throughout the apprenticeship but a good sense of timekeeping will help to keep the work in check. The support provided is incredibly helpful and helped myself to get through the workload.

We receive all the support we need during our training. Working with very helpful employers, mentors and Co workers, there's always been someone to help me if I've struggled. Both applying with my academic studies and in work training there has never been a task I haven't been able to complete thanks to the support this apprenticeship provides

If I ever feel I'm struggling with my studies I can go to my training providers for advice and help. I'm left to complete work indendently but will receive support when I ask.

My qualifications help me to identify health and safety within the company and what to he observant of. Certain units within my qualifications rely on my workplace gained knowledge. Using this in my work helps me to remember the training I've received

We have a yearly mountain challenge which is an orienteering/ DofE style walk completed in a team of apprentices formed from your factory. This is challenging but very fun overall. The locations we visit make up for any of the hardwork! In addition I get along very well with fellow apprentices and Co workers and will occasionally see them outside of work

Yes

Being someone who's always been interested in engineering, BMW seemed like a very good option being a well established engineering company. The apprenticeship is challenging but rewarding with the knowledge and qualifications gained. The employees are all very friendly and welcoming. I enjoy working for BMW and look forward to continuing to work for them in the future

Show interest, research apprenticeship roles and show confidence in yourself. Being able to work well in a team is a key skill in work so demonstrating this benefits very well when applying. Being friendly, outgoing and just yourself will go a long way.