Power Network Craftsperson Review

Apprentice jointer. I am learning how to cable joint on the electricity distribution network. Day to day I work on site being mentored by a trained and qualified jointer. They talk me through what is happening and also provide personal supervision when I am working on the network. I also attend college and SSE training school to gain the skills and knowledge required for my role.

I have learnt a huge amount of new skills when I attended SSE training school to complete my first jointing course. I learned a full introduction into cable jointing which was very new for me and I was also able to develop my existing hand skills i.e. using tools and equipment etc.

I very much enjoy my programme. It can be a little stressful at times when trying to complete evidence for trailblazer and also completing courses. It is a lot of information to take in especially if you have no prior experience. However I do still enjoy all the learning aspects and pushing to gain more knowledge.

Overall the organisation is okay. Being depot based is sometimes not well organised as apprentices need to collect evidence for trailblazer, however it can be difficult to collect this if the work isn't available. Sometimes it feels as if apprentices are the last thing to worry about and we are left in the dark.

Support is available if you need it. There is however a lot of pressure which can sometimes feel quite negative which has the opposite effect of feeling supported. Managers are generally very good at offering me support and I feel I could approach if I needed help. Also learning team at SSE are extremely approachable and it is nice to have females in this role.

The support is ample in order to complete our qualifications. Some teachers vary in how they teach so sometimes, those who may not have a great understanding are overlooked for those who do have an understanding. This can be a little daunting as you feel like everyone is ahead of you. Other teachers notice those who struggle and do offer the support.

I have definitely learnt some knowledge that has helped with my understanding of how my role works. There is a lot that I feel I haven't used during my role as yet but this may come in the future? Working on maths skills has improved my ability to think faster when on site.

I haven't heard about any other activities outside of work? When at college we play football together however this is organised by ourselves and not the company. In terms of depot based I am not aware of any activities available for employees to take part in. I think some employees do meet outside of work but this isn't something I am involved in.

Yes

Overall a good start to the apprenticeship. I have already learnt a huge amount of knowledge and I'm sure this will only improve with more experience and exposure. I have felt very welcomed into the company and so far everything is going as planned. There are things for the company to work on though.

Research the role your applying for. Understand what the company does. Be prepared for tasks which involve thinking quickly and coming up with solutions for unforeseen problems. Be open and honest about your previous experience as it is a good conversation builder with your interviewer. Ask as many questions as you can to show you have genuine interest in the role.