Degree Apprentice Review

As a designer your role can vary depending on the project you're on. Tasks can include calculations, drawings, CAD work, meetings and presentations, and site visits.

Site-relevant skills, communication, maths, critical thinking, ED&I knowledge

Some areas of the programme are great, but some less so. It can really depend on your module teacher and the projects you are on at work. If you work in a structural discipline many of the modules will be relevant to you, but other disciplines may find their learning at university less relevant.

The university block weeks are ran well, and apprentices tend to have a good amount of work with their employer. However, both parties disagree on how much time apprentices should be given to work on their assignments leaving apprentices to fend for themselves with lots of work and not a lot of time.

Employers generally give a good amount of work, with some apprentices getting a good range of experience. However, some apprentices work on CAD for long periods and as a result lack skill progression.

Good amount - if you're stuck you can ask for Teams calls, etc. while you're off-campus

Some areas are very relevant, some less so. Generally the course helps develop your engineering understanding and reasoning and you can do harder tasks at work as you progress through the degree.

Some people from the office go to local sports places (badminton, football, climbing, etc.) and teams often go on socials.

Yes

While there is room for improvement, there are a wide range of opportunities within the company and you will be supported with your studies.

Know your interests, be confident, have clear goals and communicate these with your manager when you start