Precision Machining Apprentice Review
at AWE
Level 3 Apprenticeship
Mechanical Engineering
Reading
Review Submitted: March 2024
Overall Rating
4.1 /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
-
Overview of Role
5/5
-
Skills Development
3.4/5
-
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
As a precision machinist you get given engineering drawings and have to make components using various machines (lathes, milling machines) to precise tolerances. We get inducted on each new machine we use.
To what extent do you enjoy your programme?
4/5
I really enjoy my job, I enjoy coming to work each day to make components and I get on well with the people I work with - the other apprentices and the managers are lovely and approachable.
Skills Development
Have you learnt any new skills or developed existing skills?
5/5
I have learnt lots of new practical skills since I started my apprenticeship - how to use a range of machines, measuring equipment, how to interpret engineering drawings, etc. I have also developed my communication and teamwork skills through my work here.
Structure and Support
How well organised/structured is your programme?
3/5
The programme is split into two parts - we spend the first half in the simulated workshop environment and this is quite well organised. After two years we are supposed to go on placements around the business and this is currently not very well organised, people are just waiting around for placements.
How much support do you receive from your employer?
5/5
I receive a lot of support - we have line managers who are friendly and helpful and we also each have a pastoral manager who is there to support us with any difficulties we might have in or out of work. There are lots of people I could talk to if I have a problem.
How much support do you receive from your training provider when working towards your qualifications?
3/5
We attend college one day a week and have lessons which teach us what we need to know to pass our exams for our qualifications. The level of support varies from teacher to teacher - some are enthusiastic and knowledgeable, but not all.
How well do you feel that your qualification (through your training provider) helps you to perform better in your role?
3/5
The knowledge we learn at college - such as information about engineering materials and maths - helps me in my role as I better understand how materials will respond when I machine them.
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
There are some extra-curricular activities you can get involved in but not many.
Recommendations & Advice
Would you recommend AWE to a friend?
Yes
Why?
It is a great place to work with lots of support and benefits (good pay, non-working Fridays, generous holiday allowance). We are well supported and able to learn well in the workshop. The facilities on site are excellent too and job prospects after the apprenticeship are varied - it is possible to work your way up in the company and progress as far as you want to.
What tips or advice would you give to others applying to AWE?
Be patient - the application process takes time! (But it is worth it). Be honest in your application about your abilities or any needs you have as they will take these into consideration so that they can better support you.
