Electrical Power Protection & Plant Commissioning Engineer Review

As a Higher Apprentice with National Grid, the apprenticeship involves a lot of learning (theory and practical) at the National Grid training academy. As well as learning with Aston university and self study. This is all in preparation for completion of the apprenticeship to be ready for substation roles.

At the National Grid training academy I have learnt a lot of life skills such as copper pipe work, which is handy for understanding plumbing. I have also learnt how to properly inspect and erect pre-fabricated scaffolding. All of which have been very fun.

I have not long started my journey with National Grid and I have thoroughly enjoyed my short time so far. I have met some amazing people on the way and made potential lifelong friends. It is worlds apart form other companies and I truly feel valued and respected.

The apprenticeship is structured very well in my opinion. Yes, there is a lot of theoretical learning involved at the start, but that is important to gain a basic understanding of what you will be doing when you are finished.

I feel like I have received high quality support so far. I was a bit nervous when starting the university side of things, because of the maths involved. However my employer has found people within the company who are willing to provide me with support.

Aston University is where I will be gaining my degree once qualified. They also have been happy to provide me with support and anyone else who is finding it a bit of a struggle. I have found the level of teaching there very beneficial.

As I have only just started my learning with Aston University, the modules that we have been learning have already given me a basic level of understanding to grasp the complexity of the National Grid infrastructure. This allows me to be prepared for future endeavours when I reach my substation.

National Grid offers a lot of extra-curricular activities to get involved in, for example there is National Grid running team for those who like to run. But outside of sports you can also get involved with giving up some of your spare time to get involved in charity work.

Yes

I would recommend this company because it is so interesting and diverse. I really don't think many people understand what they do and I think they would be inspired to work for a company that wants to help drive a cleaner, greener future for the entire country.

Be prepared to put the work in, this is a great apprenticeship for anyone regardless of race or gender. The company has so many roles within it, the possibilities are only limited to your desire.