Project Management Degree Apprentice Review

My programme consists of 6 month rotations within different areas of Rolls-Royce, whether it be in; Civil Aerospace, Defence or Submarines where I have day release to University every Monday. My usual day consists of managing project teams, communicating with stakeholders and colleagues and managing the; time, cost and quality of a project. This also contributes to my professional portfolio which will be assessed as I finish my apprenticeship. Due to the variety of placements there is no 'usual' day at work which keeps it relevant and exciting.

I have learnt many skills throughout my apprenticeship. As I have never formally worked in an office prior to the apprenticeship my 'soft skills' have seen vast improvement. Including; communication skills, presentation skills and organisational skills. Within the workplace you are treated as a valued employee and therefore the skills that have been developed are those that are relevant and useful for my future work. I have also seen personal benefit as I have more responsibility such as financial awareness and budgeting.

I love the work I do, to put it bluntly. I enjoy working with likeminded colleagues within my placements and I never dread going to work! With moving placement area every 6 months I have a large variety in the work I do so it never gets stagnant or boring. My experience of managers have been excellent within Rolls Royce, both supportive and ambitious in what you can achieve as an apprentice, which has enabled me to see large improvements in my ability.

The course is clearly structured into a four year programme, with 6 month rotations. I study my degree with the University of Cumbria. As we are the first cohort of Project Management Degree Apprentices at the University of Cumbria there is always improvements to be made to the programme and the training provider is always open for improvements and suggestions for the programme, such as learning and delivery techniques. Work based placements are well structured and communication flows are good.

I am very happy with the level of support that I receive from my employer, both from apprenticeship management and work based management. My Apprentice Development Leader is always in close contact and always offers support when needed. In combination with Apprentice Reviews where opportunities are outlined and progress is assessed, it is a great opportunity to gain support from the Apprenticeship Team. Also, at work, managers have always had reoccuring meetings set up to 'catch up' and focus on apprentice development.

There is continuous support from both the training provider and the apprenticeship team for the qualifications. The university is always open to questions and support, on both the university days and throughout the week when we are not in direct contact with the University. They have always provided lengthy feedback on submitted pieces of work to better myself academically and suggest improvements. I can not fault the support I have received from both the training provider and employer.

As the qualification is directly related to my job title, it is very easy to see the links in between my academics and work. In particular the learning of methodologies to tackle certain pieces of work has been largely beneficial and due to the experience of the tutors at the training provider they can help relate academics back to work. Also, as the qualification is required for future job prospects it shows the apprenticeship is constructed in a way to benefit both the apprentice and the employer.

The employer has their own 'AGA' (Apprentice and Graduate Association) which hosts social events and networking opportunities within the apprentice and graduate cohorts. Also, there are associations/ clubs and networking opportunities outside of the AGA which is set up by local teams within Rolls Royce where I have been involved in many throughout my placements. Such as team away days. There is also excellent sports facilities and social areas at the campus so there is always opportunities to get involved in more activities.

Yes

I've thoroughly enjoyed my experience at Rolls Royce. I have been supported to achieve the best of my ability every day. As daunting as joining a company as large as Rolls Royce as an apprentice may seem, the vast amount of networks and cultures you become aware of is incredible. With sites in; Singapore, Bangladesh, Germany, America to name a few. As an apprentice at Rolls Royce you will be respected and be treated as a valuable member to their workforce.

Be yourself! Rolls Royce employs a diverse range of people from all over the world, the application phase can seem daunting with the amount of applications they receive however if you remain confident and show your willingness to learn and progress both personal and professionally then Rolls Royce is the place for you. Also, research the company, have a look into the countries/ industries we operate in, having good knowledge of the company goes a long way in an interview!