Quality Technician Review

As I am in my first year of the apprenticeship, I have yet to undergo my role in the company. We attend James Watt College 5 days a week for the first year. Overall, the college is good but sometimes has poor management and there is confusion around timetables and paperwork. However, when we sometimes go into the plant, the work is enjoyable and the other employees are always willing to help.

During my time in the college, I have learned a lot of new skills that I had previously not been taught during my A Levels. Some of these skills include lathes, milling, PLC programming, hydraulics, pneumatics and some electronics skills. These were mostly taught well and the tutors are all very good and willing to help.

So far I am enjoying my programme a lot, the college is very enjoyable the majority of the time, the tutors are very helpful and want to ensure you are happy and learning what you should. I do feel like I will enjoy my programme more in my second year when I actually start my role in the business.

The part of the programme that BMW organises is well structured and organised, however the college that we attend in the first year can sometimes be unorganised and there can be confusion in certain areas, such as incomplete registers 5 months into the apprenticeship, poor communication between college management and staff, so students are told they are doing different things.

My employer has been very helpful when anyone has needed it, they are very supportive throughout the apprenticeship and are happy to assist you if any issues occur at college or at home. Everyone I have met at the plant in the few days I have gone has offered to give any help if needed.

The training provider is happy to help with any issues and give their own time to help and support you throughout your qualifications. They give demonstrations whenever necessary to give you the most in-depth training and information possible. There is some work that certain tutors expect you to be able to do yourself, this helps teach responsibility skills.

As I have not officially started my role in BMW, I cannot fully see how my learning / qualification helps me perform in my role in the business. However in the few days I have been on-site I can see how the skills and learning could relate to the workplace.

As I have not worked in the business, I do not know of any extra curricular activities that are open. There is a MOVE scheme where you can enter and apply for a role in a different country for 8 weeks. This could be a good opportunity to see how different plants operate.

Yes

BMW group is a very large company with a lot of opportunity to grow, learn and make a difference in the world. You can learn about cutting edge technologies and how they are used in the workplace. Everyone at the plant is helpful, kind and willing to assist you in your development.

Make sure you are well informed about the company and the plant you will be working at, be willing to learn and grow. Also be sure to show enthusiasm and interest in what you are doing. You should also be willing to help anyone else that needs it and help them grow.