Design and Manufacture Graduate Apprentice Review

i am curently in my Mechanical placement. So my daily tasks are typically using the software Creo to create a simplified version of a Leonardo product which will then be 3D printed. My interactions tend to be with my small team in the office and nobody really outsde of the company.

I have learned how to use the software Creo during this placement, i did this by completing a 2 week training course, I then took what i had learned from this and put it to use building my first model.I have been learning whilst building this piece and have people around me to help if i get stuck

I enjoy the programme for the majority of the time. Provided I have plenty of work to be getting on with then im fine, I just dont like sitting with nothing to do. This hasnt really happened since my first placement so Ive been enjoying it since then. The people in my office are nice too

Overall, id say the programme is fairly well organised. The induction process was very beneficial and well structured to help ease us into the company. However, i then wasnt able to come on site for about 2 months which unsettled any routine i shouldve been getting into. Is been better now that im on site

I recieve a fair bit of support from my employer. For example, Im currently dealing with a very ill family member and both my placement manager and apprentice training officer were very understanding and offered support for when i need it. I also know that if i was struggling with uni work then a can get a mentor/tutor to help me

The university is not as good as Leonardo at providing support. [This section of the comment has been removed by a member of the RateMyApprenticeship Team because it did not meet our site terms and conditions] is good at replying however, some of the lecturers can be unresponsive or unhelpful when their help is required. Its also not as easy for us to benefit from the uni support as it is in glasgow and we work/ live in edinburgh.

The knowledge i have been gaining throughout my qualification has somewhat helped my in my role in work. I havent used any of the complex mathematics we have learned in uni to my advantage in the workplace, however I have used some of my more generic mechanical knowledge to my advantage such as when investigating cranes.

There arent loads of oppertunities within work however, I make a conscious effort to take part in activites. For example, i play 7 a-side football every Wednesday lunchtime with other engineers in the company. I am also part of the golf commitee who have monthly rounds at different courses around Edinburgh.

Yes

I would recommend Lenardo's Graduate Apprentice programme to a friend for a number of reasons. Firstly, the combination of getting 4 years paid work experience whilst also gaining a university degree equivalent to a full time university course is definitely beneficial. Also, it is good pay considering we are just apprentices (which may be increasing according t the union).

Find accomodation in the local area before starting the job if you have to move, and visit the place before deciding aything. Also, if you have any questions about anything within Leonardo dont be afraid to speak up and ask it, there are no stupid questions for apprentices to ask.