Civil Functions Degree Apprentice Review

I work as a methods engineer, which means that I investigate any problems happening during manufacturing and look for potential solutions which I can then test and put into the instruction manuals when I have validated that the changes to the instructions will improve the manufacturing process.

The first year of the apprenticeship involves learning a myriad of practical skills like machining, fitting, welding and electronics. Also through work placements I have had an opportunity to develop my interpersonal and leadership skills.

I generally enjoy each day I go into work, even when I'm tired and I have university work to do at the same time. Every day there is something new to learn since engines are so complex that each one has unique problem to investigate and solve.

The programme is well organized, even with lockdowns and COVID the programme was only delayed by 6 months which I appreciated. The first year involves a week at university and a week in the workshop learning practical skills. The next years involve actual work placements for experience.

There are support structures in place and every two months there is a thorough meeting with an apprentice supervisor who are all very friendly and open to hearing any issues or difficulties. I was surprised that while the responsibility is greater than in school, there is more respect also.

When there was an issue with university, the class of apprentices had the weight of Rolls-Royce behind them when raising an issue which helped it to get solved quickly. Also since the apprentice year group are all in the same lectures its much easier to find help from a peer.

Between university, the practical skills I've learned and also projects that I have done throughout the apprenticeship. I feel confident in my abilities when I am doing my work placements. Practical skills in particular are the best way to learn the terminology of measurement methods and tool names.

With lockdowns the answer is no unfortunately. But in the 6 months of my apprenticeship before lockdowns started the Apprentice-Graduate Association organized a boat party, a pub crawl, paintball, bowling and other activities.

Yes

Its a very good opportunity. A salary, university, learning trade skills and gaining valuable work experience at a global company with a house hold name.

The most important thing is to have plenty of examples on your CV of extra curricular activities or projects you have done. Volunteer for relevant opportunities at school, practice soldering at home and make something interesting and memorable. You need to show that you are passionate about engineering