Apprentice Substation Craftsperson Review
at National Grid
Level 3 Apprenticeship
Engineering
Bristol
Review Submitted: May 2022
Overall Rating
4.7 /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!
4.5/5
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Overview of Role
4/5
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Skills Development
4.4/5
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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:
4/5
When training, a normal day will be about 9-4:30. This includes at least a 30 minute lunch and a number of breaks throughout as well. Training takes place at a place called Eakring and they provide all food and accommodation for when you need to stay over.
When on-site you'll complete work alongside non-apprentices so that you can learn how all work is completed
When on-site you'll complete work alongside non-apprentices so that you can learn how all work is completed
To what extent do you enjoy your programme?
5/5
I really enjoy my programme. There's a good balance between work life and personal life which reduces my overall levels of stress. There's a lot of different people in the same situation as you as well so it's great to meet all these people. They also help you get by which makes it more enjoyable.
Skills Development
Have you learnt any new skills or developed existing skills?
4/5
As I came form a non-engineering I've learnt a lot since I started. I've learnt skills in the workshop like how to use drills correctly. While when I'm on site I learn more specific to my job. This includes using correct spanners and screwdrivers depending on the hole which the botls/nuts need to go in.
Structure and Support
How well organised/structured is your programme?
4/5
The structure is organised very well. There is a balance between training at Eakring and training on site. The first year I've been spending more time at Eakring but that means that I've been able to learn a lot more than I otherwise might have been able to.
How much support do you receive from your employer?
4/5
They are very accommodating whenever someone has an issue which needs to be sorted. This is things like pre-booked holiday being factored in to the training program so that it can be built around it all. Along with this there is an employee assitance program which operates 24/7 for any employee who is struggling.
How much support do you receive from your training provider when working towards your qualifications?
5/5
There is a lot of support on offer. All you need to do is drop a message to the trainers and there'll explain to you where improvements could be made or where you're going wrong. They will also stay for extra time if they need to so you have a greater understanding of all the work.
How well do you feel that your qualification (through your training provider) helps you to perform better in your role?
5/5
The qualification which I will receive helps me gain a lot of knowledge for work which then gets completed on site. This includes learning about parts of a substation. I feel like I'm more informed about certain parts of site as the qualification has already taught me about it
Are there extra-curricular activities to get involved in at your work? (For example, any social activities, sports teams, or even professional networking events.)
4/5
You are able to volunteer at career events which is a great way of meeting people. There's also the social effect which is seen when you meet all the new apprentices who are taking on the same rules around the country. This helps you feel better about yourself and more confident.
Recommendations & Advice
Would you recommend National Grid to a friend?
Yes
Why?
I would recommend it as it's one of the best apprenticeships around the country. It allows you to train up in the STEM sector and gives you a pathway which you could continue to follow in later life. You also experience new things you might not otherwise do and meet a load of people who help you along the way.
What tips or advice would you give to others applying to National Grid?
The first thing would be to be yourself and be confident in any ability you have. Always have a drive to learn and show yourself to be competent throughout the interview process. They aren't always looking for the smartest person, more the best suited for the role. This is what helped me get to the apprenticeship.
