Aerospace engine fitter apprentice Review

On a day to day basis I will be working on the shop floor with other engine fitters in the business learning the jobs which are conducted on that specific section. This improves my knowledge of the processes and the way that the engine is manufactured. This helps me complete my NVQ work.

Whilst on my apprenticeship I have learnt a wide variety of skills. Firstly, my practical skills have improved by using tools and practical equipment on a daily basis. Secondly, through extra activities I have been able to improve my leadership skills by leading a variety of different projects which have improved my network.

I thoroughly enjoy my programme at Rolls-Royce. I enjoy the day to day workings and also enjoy the wide variety of opportunities that there are to stretch and challenge myself. In addition, I also like the fact that there are opportunities for further education once I finish this apprenticeship which I hope to do.

My programmes organisation however is something which could be dramatically improved on. The placements are not very well structured, partly due to the COVID-19 pandemic, however they were still very disorganised before. The assessor alignment is not great which has meant that we have missed opportunities to gather evidence for our NVQ work.

I receive good support from my employer. I have an assigned apprentice development leader who conducts reviews with us and is our main point of contact. The only thing I would say on that however is that when actions are given to our leader there is often not many outcomes from this.

When carrying out our college work often the amount of support offered is dependent on the tutor you have. Some teachers are very supportive and will do there best to help you where as others offer help however it is sometimes very ambiguous and misleading. On the NVQ side however we have not yet experienced any support from the college as it is still in the process of being handed over.

I feel like my NVQ qualification helps me to perform better in my practical role as a fitter. However, sometimes there doesn't seem much relevance with the work completed in our college course. However, the work completed in the college course would be more applicable for students wishing to go on to further education.

There is an apprentice and graduate association which host a variety of different events which anyone is welcome to get involved in. There are different sports clubs such as the rugby club. In work there are networking in events such as conferences with high up managers which you can listen in on.

Yes

Yes I would recommend Rolls-Royce to a friend as Rolls-Royce is a large company with a lot of opportunities to progress in and carry out different jobs. They also look after you in the sense of they pay you well, you have a good amount of holidays and you can get support where needed.

I would advise other people applying to Rolls-Royce to ensure that during the application process they display all of their good attributes and not be afraid to almost boast. I would say to be mindful that there is a line between showing off and being cocky and to also ensure that they prepare thoroughly for any interviews they might have.