Materials Laboratories Apprentice Review

My role consists of Managing one or several projects in a particular materials department, either in materials design and development or manufacturing. These projects typically consist of performing research, either through a litriture review or testing. process improvement and implementation, as well as performing process monitoring such as audits.

I have learned many new skills throughout my apprenticeship, firstly consisting of a variety of workshop skills consisting of machining and sheet metal work. During placements, i have also learned how to perform materials testing and data analysis. a series of microscopic techniques including the sue of and SEM.

I particularly enjoy my programme. especially because of the variety of projects available and the mix of practical and office based wok.

My Programme is well structured in, principle. however the execution of this structure has been a little lax in the past 4 years, mainly due to timescales lagging behind where they should do without poor input from the apprentices.

I receive a good amount of support form my employer. points of contact tend to be responsive and provide information when it is available. there are methods of getting extra support where its is required both in work and through the university.

In the past 2 years the support provided for our qualifications has significantly improved, allowing for regular meetings with assessors, lecturers are available provided that a meeting is booked but in some cases responses are lacklustre.

Personally i find that the degree could be improved in terms of relevance to my day to day job as it is more mechanically focussed compared to materials. however I am aware that improvements are being made to ensure that this is better in the future.

there are a variety of sports clubs at work, as well as the apprentice and graduates association that organise social events throughout the year.

Yes

I believe that the experience that I have gained throughout my apprenticeship has far better prepared me for a working role than a university degree could ever do. along with the skills gained I have also been able to experience a variety of working environments, and have a better understanding of what i am capable of and what i have an interest in.

Make sure to read the interview pack thoroughly before the interview. make sure to be familiar with the job and be enthusiastic and honist.