Degree Mechanical Apprentice Review

I am a degree apprentice which means I currently study for a degree one day a week and work at Leonardo for the other four days. I will do this from year 2-5 f the scheme as I attended college for 5 days a week in year one, with one day being for my degree, and 4 days completing practical qualifications and DoE. My working location in the company will differ as my apprenticeship goes on as I move to different departments in three or six month stints.

The main skill I would say I have developed has been team work This is something that I didn't do too much prior t entering the company, however it has been a large part of my job so far. Working here has helped me to understand the importance of team work. I am getting used to procedures used within the company and how they must be presented in a clear way. I have learn ther skills in terms of computer programs that are used which include Excel, SAP, Catia V5, etc.

I would say that I really enjoy the range and variation of task ad earning that has been offered to me so far. There are days in which the job is less appealing than other but this is no different to any other job available. I have enjoyed learning new skills and getting to know people that have followed a similar career path to the one I ope to pursue with Leonardo. It is nice being paid to learn and gain qualifications to better myself!

The structure of the program was made fairly clear prior to entering the company and employment. I think this is important so that people aren't surprised as to what they have got into. Support from my training manager is very good. Course structure in terms of Yeovil college was not always the best in regard to the 1st year of my degree however, Leonardo did everything they could to help any issues get solved, which they now have been.

Support is made available and training managers and department managers have all been very supportive and helpful so far. I feel safe in bringing to attention any problems that I have or asking for any advice that I require in regard to work or anything else. They are always willing to help and make things as easy for possible in regard to transitions made at college or the company. This is a key benefit I would highlight from my time at Leonardo so far.

I receive any support I require whether this be to do with my college work and degree course, or any qualifications that are undertook at work. There are lots of extra qualification and support available also, including language learning, charity events, etc. Any help required in regard to organizing time and work load is also offered. I feel safe to contact my training manager if I have any concerns relating to any qualifications I am completing.

The qualifications I am undertaking are teaching me about both the industry in which I work and helps with work I complete. Not all qualifications, in terms of my degree course, relate to my day-to-day job role currently, but may well be of greater relevance in the future. NVQ work does relate to work I complete every day and helps me to reflect on what could have been done better or what I completed well.

I think some of these are hard to answer given the global pandemic (Covid 19) occurring at the time of this survey. Plenty of opportunities are offered even if we choose not to participate. For example, there is an AWASA committee run by trainees at Leonardo which can be joined by anyone and opens up chance for board positions, such as chairman, to be taken. I feel more social event could be offered, however any sports event for example are not being able to be run at this time due to Covid.

Yes

Leonardo offers meaningful qualifications ad opportunities along with the financial security of a wage. This was very important for me as I will eventually complete a degree with Leonardo and end up with no debt. Leonardo employees and management have treated me very well from the start of my time at the company, and I feel like I would not have got a better start to working life at many places. Leonardo offer employees a lot, especially apprentices.

I would tell others to prepare well for the interview and take their chance with both hands. Leonardo has offered me a great start to my career. Get in touch with Leonardo and register interest prior to applying. As with anything else, research into the field of engineering will go a long way in determining whether Leonardo is right for you. I wooed also say that there are lots of opportunities and a lot is expected from you so be ready to work, but they do seem to treat employees very well.