Footwear production apprentice Review

Item: Footwear production apprentice at Dr. Martens
Rating: 5
Author: Anonymous

at Dr. Martens

Level 2 Apprenticeship

Engineering

Wollaston, Northamptonshire

Review Submitted: May 2022

Overall Rating

5 /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!

5/5 - Overview of Role

5/5 - Skills Development

5/5 - Structure and Support

Overview of Role

Please give an overview of your role and what this involves on a day-to-day basis:

5/5

As a footwear production apprentice we learn the entire process of manufacturing footwear from start to finish. We rotate between four disciplines: Clicking, Closing, Lasting and Finishing. This is where we then learn the relevant hands on skills and processes. We also spend time at college refining our skills and gaining knowledge about the topics surrounding manufacturing and footwear, this includes subjects such as health and safety, the history of footwear and other companies approach to footwear manufacturing.

To what extent do you enjoy your programme?

5/5

I personally found the apprenticeship really enjoyable. I was given the opportunity to gain knowledge, learn new skills and really challenge myself. It's great being part of a close knit team, that shares the passion for craftmanship. There are also a lot of great perks working for Dr. Martens, such as work parties and trips, mental health teams and free private healthcare etc.

Skills Development

Have you learnt any new skills or developed existing skills?

5/5

I have gained a qualification in level 2 - Footwear Manufacturing. I have learnt the entire process of manufacturing footwear from start to finish. This include the production of leather and materials, the process of cutting leather, sewing the pieces together, lasting the upper into footwear, finishing and inspecting ready for the footwear to be boxed. I have also learnt how to operate and maintain machinery safely. I have gained the ability to identify problems and maintain quality standards throughout the entire process.

Structure and Support

How well organised/structured is your programme?

5/5

The apprenticeship is well organised with a good balance between college, classroom days, trips and factory work. We are supported by our apprentice supervisor and line supervisors during factory days and supported by our tutor during college. We gain more theoretical knowledge during college, which then can be applied during working in the factory where we refine our practical skills.

How much support do you receive from your employer?

5/5

We receive a good amount of support from our manager, line supervisors, apprentice supervisor and HR. We receive inductions and a good amount of training so that we know the correct information and the systems in place. This includes the relevant people we can contact to ensure we feel supported in the workplace.

How much support do you receive from your training provider when working towards your qualifications?

5/5

We receive a good amount of support from our college tutor. They keep in regular contact with both the students and the employers. We receive an induction so that we know the relevant people we can contact to ensure we feel supported in both the workplace and college. They visit the factory regularly to ensure we are being trained properly and are being supported by our workplace.

How well do you feel that your qualification (through your training provider) helps you to perform better in your role?

5/5

I have learnt about the whole process of manufacturing footwear and specialised in certain areas. Therefore I have an understanding of how all the stages in production have an effect on the other processes. This gives me the ability to identify and solve problems and gives me the knowledge of how this would effect the quality of work.

Are there extra-curricular activities to get involved in at your work? (For example, any social activities, sports teams, or even professional networking events.)

5/5

There are many extra-curricular activities to get involved in at our workplace. For example, there are courses to become first aid trained, fire Marshall trained and forklift trained etc. There are also many company charity days and events. There are social events such as work Christmas parties and summer BBQs.

Recommendations & Advice

Would you recommend Dr. Martens to a friend?

Yes

Why?

Dr. Martens are a good company to work for with many perks and bonuses. They give you the opportunity to continue to expand and learn new skills and progress throughout the company. They care about their employees and encourage, self- expression, individuality, inclusivity and diversity. They give you the opportunity and the platform to express your views and concerns.

What tips or advice would you give to others applying to Dr. Martens?

The application process consists of sending a CV through the Dr. Martens job website. The successful candidates are then invited for an assessment day. The assessment day consists of an interview and a few tasks to see how you work and for you to see if you would like the job. They are looking for hard-working individuals with a passion for the brand and craftsmanship.

View All Company Reviews