1. Did you go straight into your Apprenticeship from school?
After school I went to Sixth Form to carry on learning about the subjects I was passionate about and to give me more time to think about my future career. After sixth form I started this Apprenticeship.
2. Why did you choose to do an Apprenticeship?
I chose to do an Apprenticeship because after many years of school I wanted to get out of the classroom and into the working environment, but still carry on my education. I really liked the idea of carrying on my learning, whilst working and getting paid, and being a practically minded person an Apprenticeship seemed suitable.
3. How did you find out about your Apprenticeship?
Through searching on the internet about Apprenticeship vacancies and looking at the University of Oxford Apprenticeship website.
4. What have you gained from your Apprenticeship – skills, experience etc.?
I have become more confident, gained practical skills including CNC machining, and also broadened my theoretical knowledge of engineering from my tutors and teachers at college.
5. What has been your proudest moment so far from doing your Apprenticeship?
My biggest achievement was completing a yearlong project for college. The project involved designing and making a prototype variable collimator for use in radiation therapy research. We hope that this prototype will be modified for clinical use in the near future. It is a great feeling to know you’ve had a positive impact on where you work and to work for a great cause such as cancer research.
6. What do you plan to do next? / What are you doing now?
I plan to work where I am for at least the next few years as a Mechanical Workshop Technician. Alongside my time here, the University has offered me to do shorter courses such as electronics to help broaden my knowledge.
7. How will your/has your Apprenticeship helped you to achieve this?
The Apprenticeship has provided me with the knowledge and skills needed for the role of a Mechanical Workshop Technician. Being qualified to a level 4 HNC means I have a real strong foundation of engineering knowledge and I am more employable if I decide to work elsewhere.
8. What advice would you give a young person who might be thinking about an Apprenticeship?
I would certainly recommend Apprenticeships to anyone who is considering their career options. The benefit of doing an Apprenticeship is that you gain practical experience and recognised qualifications, with the added benefit of a salary. When deciding on an Apprenticeship, the most important thing is to be interested in what you are doing.
9. What advice would you give an employer who is considering employing an Apprentice?
I would definitely recommend employers to have Apprentices in their work places. They can be trained specifically for the roles of your company, and they can fill any skills gaps that there may be. Many apprentices have added value to companies through suggesting improvements and brought in renewed enthusiasm and drive for the work that is carried out.
