When I left school, I started work for a plastics company, one of the biggest in the country. We make everything from small components for medical equipment to large water pipes – the blue ones which are replacing metal pipes everywhere.
My apprenticeship lasts for three years. I’m in my final year now. It’s a mix of work, which I get paid for, of course, on-the-job training, and study at the local college.
I’ve learned a lot of practical skills from the on-the-job training. It’s supervised by skilled workers. There’s quite a lot of paperwork as I have to complete forms to show I’ve reached the right standard.
I had day release to attend college one day a week in the first two years of my apprenticeship and I’ve got two days a week in my last year. I’ve learned things like working in teams, problem-solving, communication skills, and using new technologies at work, as well as engineering subjects. This year I’m completing an HNC, a Higher National Certificate, in Engineering I like learning while working, but it’s quite hard work. There’s a lot of studying to do – at home in the evenings and at weekends too. I’m doing about ten hours a week right now. It’s quite hard when your friends are out having a good time.
Once I’m fully qualified and have a bit more experience. I hope to get promoted to team leader. That means I’ll be in charge or a team of six – more responsibility and better pay.