Renewables Multi-Craft Apprentice Review

Role involves carrying out various maintenance and checks across multiple power stations, most of the work goes on during 'outages' which are predetermined periods of down time where larger maintenance jobs can be carried out. These usually happen around summer and are amazing as they offer an insight into how the stations work. However, when outages aren't on work can be slower.

I have learned so much from the apprenticeship in areas I had very little previous knowledge. I have improved my mechanical skills from college work involving maintenance of fluid systems and valves, hand fitting, mechanical maintenance. I have also developed my electrical skills, something that I had no previous experience with.

I really enjoy the apprenticeship I find the practical work really interesting, the social side of the apprenticeship is also great as I have gotten to know the other apprentices I work with which makes it a better experience, the theory side of college I enjoy to an extent but the amount of paperwork is something I personally don't like

I find the apprenticeship to be very clearly structured as you have a clear path set out for you before you begin which is something you are told about early on. I found being in college slightly less structured as there is some rushing to meet deadlines, etc. which can become stressful.

The support I receive from my employer is fantastic, they are very supportive and understanding of my situation and do very well at helping you into the business, even during college they are great as they ensure all the the necessary arrangements are made to allow for a great experience overall.

At college you receive a lot of support when it comes to the qualification. During the practical work you are well supported throughout, I found however, I had better support in mechanical than electrical as the explanations for how to do things and help if you needed it to be more helpful. The theory side is very very well supported with the lecturers doing their best to help you to pass your courses, the teaching behind the theory is very in-depth.

I feel that the qualification is key to me being able to do my job right, as it taught me things that I had little to no experience of, and while it is only at SVQ 2 currently I feel that it covers a lot of the required knowledge for work even at a basic level

I've been to an SDS apprenticeship of the year interview with my work, which was a fantastic experience as I got to meet many new people and gave me a sense of pride for my work. During college there isn't much on from the college however, by getting to know the other apprentices we often do stuff out with college i.e football, meals, etc.

Yes

The apprenticeship takes you to some fantastic places across Scotland in hydro and I couldn't recommend it more as its a hands on working environment where you are welcomed, it is hard work with college but very rewarding when you complete the work. You are well supported throughout and overall is a fantastic experience.

Be honest about yourself, dress smartly and smile. When I was doing my interviews it was during lockdown so it was something I hadn't experienced before which made me more nervous than i already was however, there was nothing to worry about as I found once i started speaking to the interviewers I became more relaxed. So try to be as relaxed as possible and you will do fine