Maintenance Technician apprentice Review

The role involves various different things. These range from on Mondays/Tuesdays we do college work days, and then the other days we do practical work. In the first year, this is spent in the apprentice training workshop completing different units such as mechanical, welding, fluid power, milling and turning etc. In the 2nd, 3rd and 4th year, you are in the plant getting experience with proper workers.

Yes I have, I completed 2 years at college completing an engineering course in level 3. However, since coming here in September 2022, I have gained a lot of knowledge in practical work, but also the theory work I have gained a lot on. I am also understanding different workplace regulations and legislations which is very helpful.

So far, the programme has been very enjoyable as the tutors are helpful and good to talk to. The units are very good to learn and you get the required help. Next year, it will get even better as we experience in the plant. The BTEC work is also good as we are left to do our work but if we need help we will get it.

The programme is organised well for the practical work, however for the BTEC work, it could be organised better with things such as assignment due dates. For example, different assignments will be set while there are already assignments out for the same unit or when others get ahead faster, the assignment gets released while most others are still behind.

We receive lots of support from our employer. There is lots of support sources available to us for different things, whether it is work related or not. For example, we also get frequent workshops with charities such as CALM and others. We also have posters around everywhere with who to contact if struggling. However, the management are good to speak to so we know we can go and talk whenever.

We receive support from Bmet to a certain extent. When we have work to do, for college the help is sometimes useful however not always.

The qualification that is taught through our training provider is useful for our role as there is units such as health and safety, fluid power etc which can be very helpful when we are performing our role as they come in to play alot. especially with the fluid power unit in the workshop

Yes there is extra-curricular activities to take part in at work. there is often charity events which are for the plant charity CALM such as football matches, quiz at christmas etc. there is also the Mini plant oxford football team which plays in the oxford league. we also organise our own football games too weekly.

Yes

An apprenticeship at BMW group is an amazing apprenticeship to have, it is one of the best in the country for the job it is. the training you get is amazing and the amount invested in you throughout the 4 years to get you different training and qualifications (once you finish your btec you can do a foundation degree funded by bmw etc unless you do a degree apprenticeship). the lifestyle here is also amazing as everyone gets along and helps.

Ensure that you learn the history of BMW group and Mini plant oxford etc for the interview process, when you start make sure to get to know people as it will instantly make life at work a more enjoyable time when you make friends and get along with those around you. also network around the company and get to know people in different areas.