Operations Management - Higher Apprenticeship Review

by Tarmac

Best Apprenticeship Employer

Rating

8.5/10

1. Please give an overview of your role and what this involves on a day-to-day basis:

Varies day to do depending on issues around the factory. I offer myself to help out every department as and when required. My typical day may include, some autonomous maintenance/ cleaning, housekeeping, stock taking, mechanical engineering, production engineering, managing mobile plant, meetings, university work.

9/10

2. Have you learnt any new skills or developed existing skills?

Since I started at Aberthaw cement works I've developed the following skills; communication, project management, discipline, cement manufacturing process, process engineering, production engineering, operations management, mechanical engineering, chemical engineering, geology, 3x mobile plant licences, confidence and more.

9/10

3. To what extent do you enjoy your programme?

I've really enjoyed my programme. There's not much I would change about my employment as a production apprentice at aberthaw cement works.

9/10

4. How well organised/structured is your programme?

To an extent, I self-manage myself and how I allocate my time to different projects, university work, etc.

6/10

5. How much support do you receive from your employer?

Tarmac have been incredibly supportive. In the midst of my Higher apprenticeship, I've also completed a year-long level 2 apprenticeship called PODP (professional operative development programme). I was allocated 2-3 days monthly to make a trip up to Nottinghamshire to complete this. And of course I've been embarked on a foundation degree (cement technology). I've also been on countless other work trips and development opportunities which have all been encouraged and supported by my employer.

9/10

6. How much support do you receive from your training provider when working towards your qualifications?

Derby uni, as with all universities, give us all the resources required to excel. And it is up to the student to put the effort in to succeed.

7/10

7. How well do you feel that your qualification (through your training provider) helps you to perform better in your role?

I work in a cement plant and aim to build a career in the cement industry... and my degree qualification is Cement Technology. So, very fitting.

10/10

8. Are there extra-curricular activities to get involved in at your work? (For example, any social activities, sports teams, or even professional networking events.)

Yes. Although ran 'independently' by a member of staff, Aberthaw have a golf society with current and previous employees which I am involved in. We aim to get out together 6-weekly. I believe there is a Tarmac football team too and a few other social clubs.

9/10

9a. Would you recommend Tarmac to a friend?

Yes

9b. Why?

Supportive employer. Safety orientated. I feel appreciated.

10. What tips or advice would you give to others applying to Tarmac?

Not sure