Higher Apprentice Power Systems Engineer Review

When you begin the higher apprentice scheme you will be schedule for various training course to attend at national grids training site in eakring as well as being enrolled onto a academic course that you attend part time. Whilst you not on any training, you will have other apprenticeships duties such as keeping a journal of everything you do and e-learning. Another major part of your apprenticeship is networking with the team that you are assigned to join when you finish the apprenticeship.

I have only been on the scheme for less than a year. However, in that time I have been able to develop my team working, social and presentation skills. As well as gaining a large amount of technical knowledge.

The scheme is challenging but it makes it very rewarding and you always have incentives, benefits and various opportunities to motivate you. Knowing how much you will gain in a short amount of gain, becoming qualified in potentially 2-3 years is one of the best opportunities I have gotten.

The programme is well structured with you being provided with a schedule for the next year at the beginning of your scheme. The team that organizes are very accommodating and will always try and work around your commitments where possible.

The support network you have on the higher apprentice scheme is massive, with multiple teams that you can contact at any time with almost any problem (professional or personal). National grid is a very accommodating company and will try to work around your needs.

Again any support you need should already be in place and all you have to do is ask. If your not comfortable asking there are other ways to get in contact with the right people through anonymous questionnaire and forms that are sent out. On top of this when you join the scheme you are assigned a line manager, and mentor who are both experts in the field that your qualification is in. As well as a buddy you will be on the same scheme and is typically only a year ahead of you.

The qualification is vital. Since a lot of National grids work is so complicated the qualification and training you are put on help gradually expand your knowledge building a foundation for you to go into your role with confidence.

There are plenty of things for you to get involved in outside of work. Each team has multiple meets a year where the whole team gathers for a day. There are social amenities at the training sites and some people meet up outside of work to play sports.

Yes

Honestly joining the higher apprenticeship scheme has been one of the best opportunities I have had. It is unlike any other scheme I have been on or heard about. Everything is intended to benefit you from all the training provided, knowledge gained, contacts and networking. As well you receive an exceptional salary and plenty of benefits.

Be yourself not who you think they want. Be prepared and professional throughout the application process. Even though you might not think you have a chance of getting the job, just apply! I didn't think I would make it and here I am, almost a year in.