Craft apprentice (structures) Review

In my first year, from Monday to Friday I had to go to Coleg Cambria in Deeside. My hours were 7:45 till 5 from Monday till Thursday, then on Friday I worked from 7:45 till 12:45. One day of the week was an academic day and then the other days of the week we were in the workshop doing hands on skills.

I have definitely developed my hands on skills when in the workshop, especially because I didn’t have any experience of working in a workshop. The tasks started off simple then progressively required more skills. I have also developed my communication and teamwork’s skills as some jobs in the workshop require help from others.

I really enjoy the programme because it’s a good environment to work in. I enjoy it because I have enjoyed the tasks we have done in the workshop, and I haven’t struggled because the teachers there are very helpful. I also enjoy the academic day because it breaks the week up.

The programme is organise as when you get there you have set targets known as quality gates. These set dates in which certain tasks and assignments need to e done by. Therefore, the year is organised as its broken down into the quality gates to ensure nobody is falling behind.

I receive a lot of support for my employer as they’re very helpful. If I have a question or need to know anything I can always go to them and they will get back to me quickly. They also arranged regular meetings in first year to keep us updated.

All the trainers are very helpful as they will make sure that you are reaching your quality gates. Also, they’re happy to help if you need it. At the end of the day we would have a meeting to discuss things such as the safety and quality of the work we have done that day.

As I a now in my second year I am working in the factory and the skills I learnt in the first year have definitely helped me do the task I’ve been assigned in the factory. Also, the information I have learnt on my academic days have helped me in the factory as it’s helped me understand the reason behind the things we do.

There are different social events that are usually held by the Gen-A team. These include activities like charity bike rides. There is also an out of bounds week which is a week away doing activities like rock climbing to build on our teamwork. However, due to Covid restrictions our years got cancelled.

Yes

I would recommend Airbus to a friend because it’s a great way to learn new skills whilst making money. It’s a well organised programme that keeps you busy whilst constantly learning new things. As well as this, you will come out with several qualifications to lead you up to your NVQ.

To get write a strong CV, make sure your aware of basic maths, English and engineering skills for the test you have to do. Then there is an online interview, and for this I’d prepare a few potential answers, learn facts about the company and know why you think working Airbus would suit you.