Engineer design Technician Apprentice Review
at Transport for London
Level 3 Apprenticeship
Engineering
London
Review Submitted: April 2026
Overall Rating
4.6 /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
4.4/5
-
Structure and Support
Overview of Role
Please give an overview of your role and what this involves on a day-to-day basis:
5/5
In my role, my day typically involves a mix of collaborative learning and independent work. I take part in meetings about current projects, where I can understand priorities, observe decision‑making, and contribute where appropriate. I also spend time shadowing my buddy, which helps me learn practical skills and see how the concepts I’m studying are applied in real situations.
Alongside this, I work independently on tasks that allow me to put my learning into practice and build confidence in my responsibilities. I also receive structured training once a week on the software and tools I use, which supports my development and helps me progress in my apprenticeship.
Alongside this, I work independently on tasks that allow me to put my learning into practice and build confidence in my responsibilities. I also receive structured training once a week on the software and tools I use, which supports my development and helps me progress in my apprenticeship.
To what extent do you enjoy your programme?
5/5
I thoroughly enjoy my programme because I’m constantly learning and developing new skills. I’m trusted to work on my own projects, which gives me the space to grow, take ownership, and apply the concepts I’ve learned in real situations. I also really value the balance between independent work and the support available when I need it.
Another aspect I enjoy is the company culture. We have regular socials, which give me the chance to meet new people, build relationships across teams, and feel more connected to the organisation. Overall, the combination of learning opportunities, responsibility, and a positive work environment makes the programme very enjoyable for me.
Another aspect I enjoy is the company culture. We have regular socials, which give me the chance to meet new people, build relationships across teams, and feel more connected to the organisation. Overall, the combination of learning opportunities, responsibility, and a positive work environment makes the programme very enjoyable for me.
Skills Development
Have you learnt any new skills or developed existing skills?
5/5
Yes, I’ve developed a range of new technical and soft skills throughout my programme. On the technical side, I’ve learned how to use new CAD software and how to create drawings from scratch, which has really strengthened my confidence in producing accurate design work.
I’ve also developed several important soft skills. My time‑management has improved as I’ve learned to balance project work, training, and independent tasks. I’ve continued to build on my teamwork skills through collaborating with colleagues, while also becoming more confident working independently. Overall, I feel I’m growing day by day in both my technical ability and my professional skills.
I’ve also developed several important soft skills. My time‑management has improved as I’ve learned to balance project work, training, and independent tasks. I’ve continued to build on my teamwork skills through collaborating with colleagues, while also becoming more confident working independently. Overall, I feel I’m growing day by day in both my technical ability and my professional skills.
Structure and Support
How well organised/structured is your programme?
3/5
Overall, the programme is well organised, and I feel supported in my learning and development. The structure gives me a good balance of training, project work, and opportunities to build my skills. However, there are still a few areas that could be improved. In particular, the duration of placements and the layout or structure of the college element could be more clearly defined and consistent. Strengthening these aspects would make the programme even more effective and easier to navigate.
How much support do you receive from your employer?
5/5
I receive a great deal of support from my employer. I have an allocated buddy who checks in with me almost every day to make sure I’m comfortable with my workload and to help if I’m struggling with anything. My line manager also stays in regular contact, recognising the work I’ve completed and sharing opportunities for me to get involved across the organisation.
We also have frequent 1‑to‑1 check‑ins, which give me space to discuss any concerns or anything that may be affecting me. During these sessions, we set clear targets that help guide my development and ensure I’m continually growing and learning. Overall, the level of support I receive makes a big difference to my confidence and progress.
We also have frequent 1‑to‑1 check‑ins, which give me space to discuss any concerns or anything that may be affecting me. During these sessions, we set clear targets that help guide my development and ensure I’m continually growing and learning. Overall, the level of support I receive makes a big difference to my confidence and progress.
How much support do you receive from your training provider when working towards your qualifications?
5/5
I receive a great amount of support from my training provider. On the college side, they have been very understanding of some health challenges I experience, and we have a plan in place for times when I may not be feeling my best. This has made a big difference in helping me stay on track and feel supported.
In terms of my coursework, they are also very flexible and allow me to use some work time to complete any outstanding college assignments when needed. This balance between work and study support has helped me manage my responsibilities more effectively and continue progressing towards my qualifications.
In terms of my coursework, they are also very flexible and allow me to use some work time to complete any outstanding college assignments when needed. This balance between work and study support has helped me manage my responsibilities more effectively and continue progressing towards my qualifications.
How well do you feel that your qualification (through your training provider) helps you to perform better in your role?
4/5
I feel that my qualification supports my role very well. The content I learn through my training provider directly links to the tasks I carry out at work, which helps me understand the reasoning behind what I’m doing rather than just following instructions. The theory gives me a stronger foundation, and I’m able to apply what I learn almost immediately in real projects.
The qualification also helps me build confidence, as each new topic or skill I learn makes my day‑to‑day work easier and more efficient. Overall, the combination of practical experience and structured learning has made me feel more capable and better prepared to take on increasing responsibility in my role.
The qualification also helps me build confidence, as each new topic or skill I learn makes my day‑to‑day work easier and more efficient. Overall, the combination of practical experience and structured learning has made me feel more capable and better prepared to take on increasing responsibility in my role.
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
Yes, there are several extra‑curricular activities I’m involved in. I’m part of the Women’s Engineering Group, where we have socials and take time to celebrate and highlight the achievements of women in engineering. It’s a great space for networking, support, and inspiration.
I also take part in the bouldering group, which allows me to enjoy a sport I love with colleagues. It’s a fun way to stay active, and we help and encourage each other during the sessions.
In addition to that, I’m a member of the book club, which gives me the chance to connect with people across the organisation in a more relaxed, creative way. These activities make the workplace feel more community‑focused and help me build relationships outside of my day‑to‑day role.
I also take part in the bouldering group, which allows me to enjoy a sport I love with colleagues. It’s a fun way to stay active, and we help and encourage each other during the sessions.
In addition to that, I’m a member of the book club, which gives me the chance to connect with people across the organisation in a more relaxed, creative way. These activities make the workplace feel more community‑focused and help me build relationships outside of my day‑to‑day role.
Recommendations & Advice
Would you recommend Transport for London to a friend?
Yes
Why?
Yes, I would recommend Transport for London to a friend. My experience so far has been really positive, the organisation offers strong support, a welcoming culture, and plenty of opportunities to learn and grow. There are also lots of extra‑curricular groups and social activities, which make it easy to meet people and feel part of the community. Overall, it’s a great environment for developing both professionally and personally.
What tips or advice would you give to others applying to Transport for London?
SMILE AND BE YOU!
