Apprentice aerospace engineer Review

He apprenticeships entails 2 qualifications, BTEC and NVQ. As NVQ is a practical conpetency qualification, for this we are in placements within the business. In the business we learn the practical fitting skills from expereinced engineers. In order to satisfy the NVQ criteria, we then conplete set tasks by assessors using the practical skills/experience obtained. BTEC is theory work, underpins knowledge of the job we would be doing after the apprenticeship. For BTEC we are based in class, and it consists of units such as maths, mechanics and Human factors.

So far throughout the apprenticeships I have developed/learnt many new skills. My presentation confidence skills have been massively increased, due to the presentation skills course Rolls Royce sets for its apprentices. I think this is a huge benfefit for apprentices as it helps them to see where their strengths are, whilst at the same time allowing us to improve in weaker areas. This really boosts confidence. Team working skills have also improved, as you get to know your team well on the first week away camping. I have also learnt practical skills throughout the first year such as hand fitting, dressing aero engines and wiring electrical circuits.

I really enjoy the programme as it has so much to offer. It is a fantastic opportunity to gain international recognised qualifications. Not only this, but there is a chance to meet very experienced people within the industry, who are always willing to help out and teach you valuable new skills. College is also a fantastic aspect as it really goes into depth about the theory of your work, helping you thoroughly understand your job.

I feel that the apprenticeship is organised as before begining a placement, you are always briefed on what is expected of you. You are alligned an assessor who outlines what criteria you need to hit to gain the unit. For college there are set units with learning aims which all meed to be covered, before doing the assignments. All content in college is always explained very well by lecturers. College also provide a timetable for when you are set and due assignments, which really makes things clearer.

Each apprentice is allocated an ADL (Apprentice Development Leader). Whenever or if ever you encounter a problem they should be your point of contact. The ADLs are very supportive and deal with any issues smoothly and ensure you are on track with your apprenticeship. Apprentice peer support groups are always thereto support you as well. Adls have an 8 weekly review with you, to check that your welfare, and check that you are completing your units.

I feel that the support provided is very well, and if ever you are not fully sure about anything there is always someone there to help you, be it ADL tutor or assessor. Each friday there is also a group meeting with apprentices in the same programme as you and a senior apprentice staff. These meetings act as forums and collate issues several people may be experiencing, and then these are fedbeck to managment for help.

The skills I learn on placement everyday, improves me as an engineer. I have always had to use skills that I have learnt throughout my apprenticeship everyday. Examples of this include torque tightening, wire locking and alligning components. Everything learnt in college helps you understand why jet engines function the way they do; it underpins the knowledge of what you are doing (Building aero engines!). The nvq and btec really help you into becoming a competent engineer.

There is always something to get involved in when you are not working! The Rolls royce leisure centre has facilties where you can play tennis, football and cricket. There is also a resturaunt built inside, where you can socialise and catch up with your co workers. Rolls royce also host professional networking events,and you would get an emails about this well in advance. The AGA (Apprentice and graduate association) host social events on a monthly basis, where every apprentice is welcome.

Yes

Rolls-Royce is a very good company, where as an apprentice you have a chance to learn from the highly skilled engineers, from a high class engineering company. It is a company where if you go the extra mile, you will be recognised for it amd be rewarded for it. Not only this, but they know how to treat employees well and everyone is treated equally and fairly. It is the best engineering company, where you can contribute towards manufacturing high class products.

The most important thing to do is to research the company and its history. Make sure you really sell yourself as a keen, enthuisiastic and motivated individual. It also very important to be a team player, as that is what your job would entail. You must explain how your past experiences (this can be as simple as a school or college project), helped you decide you want to be an engineer ay Rolls-Royce. Most importantly, be yourself and do the best you can!