toolmaker Review
at BMW Group UK
Level 3 Apprenticeship
Automotive Engineering
Swindon, Wiltshire
Review Submitted: March 2025
Overall Rating
4.3 /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
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Overview of Role
4/5
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Skills Development
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
in my role my main focus is the repair and maintenance of press tools and dies this involves condition monitoring, fault finding and following a tooling maintenance schedule, these tasks are used to indentify faults decide the best route for repair and then actually implementing the repair, we are required to prove completed work and this is typically done in tryout pressess
To what extent do you enjoy your programme?
4/5
i enjoy many things about this programme, for one the i really enjoy the work surrounding the my job i enjoy fault finding and problem solving, i also enjoy the opportunities offered, like the different training courses, extra curriculars and international opportunities like the MOVE program which aims to send apprentices to different sites across the world.
Skills Development
Have you learnt any new skills or developed existing skills?
4/5
during my time here i have developed many new skills and qualifications some examples include my crane licence b1/2 forklift licence abrasive wheel training, press safety, gas bottle safety, i have had extended use of hand grinders as they are vital to toolmaking work, i have completed a welding certification as well
Structure and Support
How well organised/structured is your programme?
4/5
Overall, my apprenticeship programme is well-structured. The training sessions are scheduled in a way that allows me to balance practical work with learning, and the course content is clear and relevant. The communication from trainers and supervisors is generally good, and there are clear progression steps. However, there could be some improvements in scheduling/consistency
How much support do you receive from your employer?
4/5
I receive a good level of support from my employer. They provide guidance when needed, ensure I have time for my training, and offer opportunities to apply my learning in real work situations. My supervisor is approachable, and I feel comfortable asking for help, communication is heavily emphasised and encouraged
How much support do you receive from your training provider when working towards your qualifications?
4/5
The support from my training provider has been generally good. They offer clear guidance on coursework, provide helpful resources, and are available to answer any questions I have. Regular check-ins help track my progress, and feedback on assessments is constructive. However, at times, responses can be delayed, and more one-on-one support would be beneficial to reinforce learning.
How well do you feel that your qualification (through your training provider) helps you to perform better in your role?
4/5
My qualification has helped me develop a better understanding of my role by providing relevant knowledge and skills that I can apply in the workplace. The training covers key aspects of my job, improving my confidence and efficiency. However, some areas could be more tailored to the requirements of our NVQ reports
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
My workplace offers several extra-curricular activities to get involved in, including an apprentice newsletter, a charity team, and an environmental team. These provide great opportunities to connect with colleagues, contribute to important causes, and develop skills outside of my day-to-day role. It’s a great way to engage with the company beyond my regular work
Recommendations & Advice
Would you recommend BMW Group UK to a friend?
Yes
Why?
I would recommend my apprenticeship to a friend because it provides valuable hands-on experience while allowing me to gain a qualification. It’s a great way to develop skills in a real working environment, earn while learning, and build professional connections. The support from both my employer and training provider has been helpful, making it a well-rounded learning experience
What tips or advice would you give to others applying to BMW Group UK?
If you’re applying to BMW Group, my advice would be to research the company and understand its values, as this will help you stand out during the application process. Show enthusiasm for the automotive industry and highlight any relevant skills or experience, even if they’re from school or hobbies. Prepare well for interviews by practicing common questions and demonstrating a strong work ethic. Finally, be proactive, ask questions, and show a willingness to learn, as BMW values innovation and continuous development.
Public Relations and Events Assistant
at BMW Group UK
- Placement (10 Months+)
- Farnborough, Hampshire
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4.8
