Interior Trim Apprentice Review

My role includes working within a variety of zones within Rolls-Royce Motor Cars’ Interior Trim Centre. Experiencing how the journey of leather is carried out through this cell within RRMC. Beginning as a leather hide and ending up as part in/for the cars. Such as; Cutting/Prepping Materials, Sewing, Seat Build and a wide array of zones which encompass covering/assembling parts. Office placements such as Quality & Planning are also part of the Interior Trim Centres’ apprentice’s scheme.

Yes I have mostly learnt new skills. Before I joined I could barely pick up a needle, now I am able to use Industrial, Domestic sewing machine, with this I’m also capable of hand sewing. Thanks to the college course I’ve learnt a vast array of skills. Specifically in terms of Sewing & Upholstery.

I enjoy the fact that I am continuing to learn and expand my skill sets. I have taken on challenges I never imagined I would be able to achieve from this, my confidence has grown. Not only have my practical skills developed but even my people skills within a business such as RRMC requires you to interact with many people you don’t know on a day-to-day basis.

There are areas which require improvement. On the whole (and having spoken to other apprentice’s across the plant) I believe interior trim centre’s apprentices should be grateful for the structure and plan they receive. Unfortunately Covid has interfered with some placements, meaning the 3 year plan is persistently being amended.

In terms of the apprenticeship itself support is available from many aspects. Though action is often not taken upon recurring issues. Again through witnessing other apprentice’s who have finished, frustration is clearly apparent as once you finish there is not a lot of support continued through to being an associate.

I have personally found college tutors and even those supporting apprentice’s from college go above and beyond to ensure you are happy and keeping up with work! It would help if deadlines were more clear and concise though I have found that the majority of transferrable skills are learnt within college.

I believe it does and it doesn’t. Traditional & Modern upholstery are quite different concepts to car manufacturing, though I understand that there isn’t necessarily a course as specific to cater for the upholstery of car interiors. Core practical skills such as hand sewing, using industrial machines, compressor based tools are all applicable to on the job.

No there isn’t as far as I’m aware. Perhaps more exposure to such things is necessary or if they don’t exist maybe they should? Even if it were just for apprentice’s? Connecting the apprentice’s may help in terms of sharing there experience’s of how they’ve dealt with things within the work place.

No

My answer has come in play from the point of view of an apprentice. I don’t believe the apprentice voice is heard when constructive concepts or points are raised. We may as well be making ‘cups of tea’ in some people’s eyes. Coming from a 24 year old carrying out an apprenticeship scheme I haven’t had a very good experience in terms of being trusted with responsibility. This feels very demoralising. The Interior Trim apprenticeship is sold very differently from the outside to what it really is in reality.

Do thorough research into your course, make sure you know what world you are entering in terms of manufacturing. Go in with an open mind and willingness. Most importantly.... don’t get too bedazzled but all the glitz and glam and remember to take it for what it really is.