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Heating and Ventilation Apprentice Review

at Meel Group (Building Services) Ltd

Level 3 Apprenticeship

Plumbing

Macclesfield

Review Submitted: May 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 - Overview of Role
4/5 - Skills Development
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
My role as an apprentice is to absorb as much knowledge and information from qualified engineers as possible to give myself the best chance to work independently in the future. This is achieved by asking questions when unsure and assisting the person you are working with, with whatever they need.
To what extent do you enjoy your programme?
4/5
I enjoy the programme as I have found the hands on work engaging. I am excited about picking up new knowledge and skills within the plumbing trade. I also get a long well with many engineers, colleagues in the office and even the other apprentices, which makes it much more enjoyable.

Skills Development

Have you learnt any new skills or developed existing skills?
4/5
A new skill that I have leant is problem solving skills. This is a particularly difficult skill as you can turn up to a job and have to find the issue with the system yourself. This could be the boiler, the pipework or even a mechanical device like a two port valve. I have also developed my communication skills as I have interacted with engineers, office staff, clients and members of the public.

Structure and Support

How well organised/structured is your programme?
4/5
I believe that it is organised very well. An example of this is swapping around apprentices with the qualified engineers after a week or 2. This means that you are working with different people throughout the year , keeping it fresh, but also gives the apprentices more knowledge and understanding as there isn’t always just 1 way to complete the job successfully.
How much support do you receive from your employer?
5/5
Since joining Meel group I have found that tools, materials and guidance have all been readily accessible. When you ring up the office if I have a problem or query , whoever answers the phone will try and help me as best they can. But I also had weekly/ monthly progress meetings with my line manager which also gave me a frequent chance to vent any problems I had, but also take feedback on board.
How much support do you receive from your training provider when working towards your qualifications?
4/5
My training provider provides clear explanations and support for the theoretical side of my course, whether that be portfolio or exams/assessments. They also come out on a site visit every year to give constructive feedback to help you improve and understand where I stand in relation to the qualification requirements.
How well do you feel that your qualification (through your training provider) helps you to perform better in your role?
4/5
My technical skills have improved. Equipping the right tools with the right technique can complete jobs quicker and to a higher standard. Being aware of safety measures and regulations have made me a more respected individual on site by site managers. But mostly it’s confidence and trying to build that confidence to make me more efficient ;getting things done quickly but effectively.
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
Since I’ve been at Meel Group there has been a few events, one being a social get together for all staff where we had food , drinks and played pool. Also other events that have been in place are a bowling night and clay pigeon shooting event.

Recommendations & Advice

Would you recommend Meel Group (Building Services) Ltd to a friend?
Yes
Why?
The work here is interesting and varied. Any new member of staff would be challenged in a good way. The team and work environment aswell as colleagues are supportive and friendly. Management is fair and supportive. I feel respected by them and the company has positive values that treats their employees well.
What tips or advice would you give to others applying to Meel Group (Building Services) Ltd?
I would encourage them to show enthusiasm and a genuine interest in plumbing. Letting them know that demonstrating a real passion for the trade and a desire to build a career in plumbing can go a long way. But also be professional and respectful as when you have your uniform on your are representing the company as a whole and not just yourself. It is also equally important to be on time.
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