Mechanical Apprentice Review

A day to day basis in the first year of the apprenticeship could include operations such as being in the workshop in college working on a lathe or doing some hand fitting activities or could be classroom based learning about different topics such as gas turbine engines, health and safety or mathematics.

I have learned n incredible amount of skills including hand skills, such as fitting and working with metal, as well as machining and other aerospace based skills such as riveting and lockwiring. As well as physical skills I have further developed my thinking and problem solving skills, as a whole I would say the apprenticeship has taught me much more than a traditional school ever could

Really enjoyed the program you get to meet loads of new people all with different skills and learn a lot from everyone. The work scope can sometimes be daunting but if you can organise your time properly and keep on top of tasks then you will find more time to actually enjoy learning.

Extremely organised facility and programme, you always have someone to talk to if you are unsure about anything and your work is clearly outlined for you so you shouldn't miss any required tasks, furthermore, any dates or important tasks to do are all in one location so you always know what to do.

Great support from the employer, all different levels of management make a great effort to get to know you and support your learning however they can, there is always projects and such like to get involved in if you have the desire and the employer always makes an effort to keep you stocked on any workwearor supplies you need to do work.

Massive support from the college, tutors always make an effort to keep in touch with you and help you where they can, any additional learning support is out there if you make the effort and try your hardest. All staff offer advice and keep you in line when it comes to getting assignments and completing tasks.

Lots of transferrable skills between the training provider and the company, the college really builds the engineering mindset and skillset foundation for you to build on whilst working up the business. They also help manage the expectations of the company and let you know what is and what is not acceptable.

Always plenty to get involved with, extra curricular activities such as the world skills challenge, volunteering or outdoor bounds challenges are there if you make the effort to ask and put your name forward. The college also offers loads of facilities that you can use such as clubs and sports facilities.

Yes

Great company, the pay is very good considering you are learning and getting a qualification the same time as working, they always try to support you and push the limits of your learning and if you are succeeding greatly they will push you further with their extra curricular activities and events.

Definitely do some research into the company and what they do, learn the basics about flight and how a gas turbine engine works, be open and honest and ask questions wherever possible. Work as hard as you can towards the apprenticeship because you will be rewarded in the long run.