Laura Dance - Level 6 Civil Engineering Degree Apprenticeship
Why did you choose to do an apprenticeship?
"I liked the idea of gaining real-life experience while working towards a degree as a “fast-track” into a career that I am excited about. It’s great to know that I’ll finish university with industry experience as well as a degree with no student loan."
How would you rate the teaching and support staff on this apprenticeship?
"Excellent, the level of support for apprentices with their heavy workload is great and makes the process as stress-free as possible."
It has made me a more confident individual as I have the experience in work to apply at university and vice versa.
How have you balanced studying alongside your professional role? How have you found the support from your employer?
"It’s more difficult than studying separate (I imagine), but the intensity helps to allow the learning to sink in better as you’re using things that you’re learning in your everyday job. My employer is excellent with ensuring that I meet my 20% off-the-job hours constantly as well as providing 10 days paid study leave to use throughout the year, which I used for the exam period and revision before."
What is your favourite thing about your apprenticeship?
"When I get to apply something from university directly to a project I’m working on at work so I can demonstrate real-world examples of engineering."
What skills and experience have you gained as part of this apprenticeship? Has there been anything that you were not expecting?
"I think it has made me a more confident individual as I have the experience in work to apply at university and vice versa. I have made some great friends from our cohort and bonded over being working individuals at university."
What advice would you give to someone considering a higher/ degree apprenticeship?
"I would highly recommend an apprenticeship to anyone who is considering it. It’s a great way to learn and develop whilst studying and you are being paid to learn rather than spending."