Assembly Apprentice Review

by BMW Group

Best Apprenticeship Employer

Rating

6/10

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

-To support management and assembly workers with tasks on the assembly line. -To learn multiple job roles on the assembly line: in keeping with regular assembly worker targets and expectations; to support line workers and to be able to complete and reference all college work effectively to be able to complete the qualification.

5/10

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

-I have learned manufacturing and engineering skills and gained knowledge both on the assembly line and within the college environment. -I have gained insight into the successful and unsuccessful operations of a well known business. - -I have furthered my communication skills, independence and teamwork capabilities, as well as personal skills.

8/10

3. To what extent do you enjoy your programme?

I enjoy the combination of work experience alongside studying for a qualification. However, I feel that the organisation and communication between my workplace (Rolls-Royce Motor Cars) and my college (Chichester College) has been poor, and as such I have struggled to understand my expectations at times in both environments. There have been no regular reviews.

6/10

4. How well organised/structured is your programme?

The organisation and structure of the program has been poor considering the brand (Rolls-Royce) and the length of time they have been running apprenticeship programs (14 years!). Very little communication between the workplace and college and unclear expectations and targets. We have not had a regular apprentice coach to support us or review our progress.

2/10

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

Whenever I have asked for support in the past it has been available to me through management, and anything I haven’t been able to work out with them or by myself I have been able to ask other apprentices for with support.

8/10

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

College lecturers have always been supportive and have been able to give answers to pretty much every question I have had. Always friendly and supportive.

10/10

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

Some but not all college units are relevant to the workplace. General engineering principles and practical skills have aided me in my understanding of engineering and have aided with my practical proficiency at work.

6/10

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.)

Some events are offered to apprentices (to assist with school events etc) but I have never been selected and feel that there aren’t enough opportunities for the number of apprentices.

3/10

9a. Would you recommend BMW Group to a friend?

Yes

9b. Why?

This apprenticeship is suitable for school leavers or those with no higher than Level 2 qualifications. Personally, I have not felt challenged on this program and have not been supported to strive. However, for those aiming to achieve a Level 3 qualification and work experience, it is a good program.

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

Be prepared to be flexible, hardworking and motivated as you will be asked to assist with a ranging difficulty of jobs. Also ensure you ask plenty of questions and are proactive in the workplace and at college as you are not spoon fed information!