Apprentice Review

I currently am doing a level 3 apprenticeship in electromechanical engineering. Day to day work involves working with my supervisor helping with his tasks that need completing, of which gives technical support for specific projects or for the incinerator.

I have so far completed my level 2 NVQ in my first two years which was worked on at MOD Boscombe Down. I have also completed training for Fire safety, Manual handling, Pedestrian forklift and Site security. I have also practiced machine work using mills and lathes whilst at Boscombe, whilst also completing a lot of filing tasks.

The work has been very enjoyable to be involved with, as there has been a wide variety of interesting jobs to be completed, to also so a project from the beginning and see it finished has also been very satisfactory.

When completing work, you do get the feeling of value, you are praised with what you have completed and how well it has ben done. I have been involved with big tasks and projects recently and it feels good to have them completed and see them through to the end.

Overall the organisation and structure of the programme hasnt been as well as it could of. In the first 2 years the communication between QinetiQ and DSTL was poor and we were messed about a number of times. Since being constantly at DSTL for the 3rd year the organisation has improved and structured better.

Every other week whilst completing our NVQ level 3 we have had visits from our tutors from QinetiQ to give us support and advice on how to complete the tasks set and finish our NVQ. The support has been good as it sets out in front of us whats left to complete and timespans.

Whilst in the 3rd year we have had a great deal of support from the employer, with any problems dealt with reasonably quick and help to advise on any issues.

The first year was difficult with the lower salary, but when we went into the second year it was easier to meet my costs due to a pay rise.

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