Trainee Pole Tester Review
at BT Group
Level 2 Apprenticeship
Engineering
Redditch
Review Submitted: May 2021
Overall Rating
3.7 /5
The Overall Rating is the average of all the ratings given in each category. We take those individual ratings and combine them into one final score!
3/5
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Overview of Role
4/5
-
Skills Development
3.4/5
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Structure and Support
Overview of Role
Please give an overview of your role and what this involves on a day-to-day basis:
3/5
My role is known as something called a Pole Tester. Periodically, I go around making sure telegraph poles are safe. To do this I have a number of different tools, one of which is called a resistograph which checks for decay both inside the pole and below ground level, it's a fantastic bit of kit!
To what extent do you enjoy your programme?
3/5
I've enjoyed my programme extremely well, it's allowed me to have a strong balance of both work but the theory side also. I have found it quite easy to balance and tried to get the majority of my theory work out the way so i could focus on learning on the job
Skills Development
Have you learnt any new skills or developed existing skills?
4/5
I have learnt numerous new skills since joining Openreach. Evertyhing from efficieny to organisation, physical and mental but also being able to enhance skills which I already had. An example of this would be my driving skills, since joining the company i've done over 10,000 miles and my driving has improved a lot!
Structure and Support
How well organised/structured is your programme?
4/5
My programme is organised fairly well, there has been some confusion at times but with the way the world is with covid, that has been understandable. What I mean by that is, certain things had to be delayed or done differently due to not being able to meet in person.
How much support do you receive from your employer?
4/5
I have received support from my employer, especially on apprenticeship days when I would have my dedicated assesor whom would help me with various things depending on what is needed. These can vary from NVQ answers, what proof is needed for different items, how to revise for exams and where to look for information.
How much support do you receive from your training provider when working towards your qualifications?
3/5
I receive support from my training provider when working towards qualifications as there is so much to learn. I would receive various different training methods needed to carry out my job, things such as tetra training, working at height and even how to lift things correctly to stop being injured.
How well do you feel that your qualification (through your training provider) helps you to perform better in your role?
3/5
My training that I have learnt throughout my qualification has been vital in order for me to carry out my job in person. Without the training, I wouldn't be able to do the job, it's a safety critical job which means training such as tetra for example is mandatory.
Are there extra-curricular activities to get involved in at your work? (For example, any social activities, sports teams, or even professional networking events.)
3/5
From what I know there aren't extra curricular activities to get involved in at work but that also may be due to the current situation we're living in with covid. Outside of work I like to keep fit by going to the gym, running and playing football when possible.
Recommendations & Advice
Would you recommend BT Group to a friend?
Yes
Why?
I think joining Openreach is a great way in order to learn new skills and try to enhance skills which you already have. It allows you to move from your comfort zone and try things you never thought you would without the job, even if its learning to drive a van for the first time.
What tips or advice would you give to others applying to BT Group?
When applying for Openreach, I would advise to do your research. The reason I say this, is to show the employer that you really have your heart set on the job and they know you are in it for the long term. Anyone can apply for the job but with the vast amount of applicants, it's important to stand out from the crowd. Have confidence!
