Footwear Production Apprentice Review

Learning all aspects of footwear manufacturing (clicking, closing, lasting and finishing), as well as industry history, pattern making and giving factory tours.

I felt there could have been more of a road map in terms of what you'd learn and when set out at the start of the course in terms of the factory aspect, but the classroom learning went smoothly with all topics outlined. The weekly classroom sessions helped balance out the learning in factory time. I felt I could always go to my supervisors to ask for clarification, help in setting up goals/targets, or voicing areas I wanted to learn more in.

One of the biggest factors around working in financial support - whilst the apprenticeship payed above the legally required amount at the time, it is very hard to live off when also trying to cover rent and travel in this rural area. I think generally speaking (not just at DMs) factory work is undervalued and under-payed, given the incredible skillsets the people that work there have. Another factor was the social aspect - you work with some incredible people, but as a young person moving to such a rural area it can be hard to find a community outside work - I feel there could be more done to support social connections. Good aspects of support included employee mental health care, Dr Martens is great at openly encouraging and providing care here. There's also great support in terms of company culture around open door policy etc. I felt it was easy to raise issues with my supervisor or managers, and that I would be heard and given the time.

We had two tutors - one from our partner college and work who worked for Dr Martens directly, so was always on site. This generally meant we could raise questions or get additional understanding and support when needed.

It has been a number of years since I completed my apprenticeship training and a lot of the skills I learnt still help me to this day, even if I'm not using them directly. I am now in an office based role making all kinds of decisions for the business, which are often influenced or given a better understanding of because of my time in the factory or in the classroom. Immediately after completing the apprenticeship I worked in the factory, directly using the skills I'd learn to complete my daily jobs of sewing the boots/shoes.

Yes

I overall really enjoyed the scheme, the people I worked with, the skills I leant, and being part of such a cool brand. I had to work really hard, but I have had some really cool career opportunities following the course and loved getting hands on and more connected to the boots and shoes I wear.