SD FTTP Engineer Review

My role is to connect customers to the FTTP network within the Openreach infrastructure. I usually provide connections from the CSP to the ONT at the customer house. I also have to talk to customers to keep them updated and I have to make sure records are up to date.

I have learnt a lot of new skills. This includes climbing poles, installing fibre and splicing fibre. I have also learnt how to use different testers and splicers. I have had the opportunity to develop my IT and communication skills working with customers and providing records feedback to my control.

I really enjoy my programme. You get put through an intense training course then you get to buddy an engineer to learn your skills. On top of this you work on a Standards qualification which relates to your job. It is enjoyable learning a new skill and engaging my brain again.

The programme is really well organised. As I said previously you have a pre determined training programme you attend at the start of the programme. Then you buddy an engineer to practice and improve these skills. You also have study days to work on your standards which are seperate from work.

There is a lot of support from my employer. I have a patch manager who can help me. I also have patch leads for support and also senior engineers who are there to help. Finally I have a buddy who can help. I am also provided an assessor who helps me through my standard.

As above there is a lot of support from my employer who is also my training provider. I have a patch manager who can help me. I also have patch leads for support and also senior engineers who are there to help. Finally I have a buddy who can help. I am also provided an assessor who helps me through my standard.

I feel that my qualification is good as it is based around KSB's required to perform my job. It gets me thinking about my work and what sort of KSB's I cover in my day to day job. As I write up case studies on jobs I have done it is relatable.

There are different activities I can get involved in. Openreach are big on volunteering and they have things such as the challenge cup to get involved in. We have a lot of extra training we can do either on learning home or via Linked in to enhance ourselves which is not mandatory

Yes

I think Openreach is a good company to work for. The pay is a lot higher than most apprenticeships, you get given a van and full kit, you get fully trained and supported and you get a qualification at the end of the apprenticeship. You also get a lot of benefits through the Rewards system.

Go in with an open mind and take all opportunities given to you. Ask lots of questions and don't be afraid to ask for help. It is intense to start but is rewarding. You get to meet a lot of different people and work on a number of different activities.