Sara's Story
Sara Skinner
1. Explain a little bit about your apprenticeship (what is the subject, what are the learning outcomes, etc.)
I am currently enrolled on a level 3 Engineering apprenticeship, this apprenticeship is going to provide a different exciting career path for me in developing an enhancing skills I didn’t know I had until starting this apprenticeship and working my way to becoming a multi skilled engineer, It was always a career path I was interested in but thought was beyond my reach, but now lucky enough to have the opportunity to.
2. What do/did you enjoy most about your apprenticeship?
I enjoy learning the practical aspects of engineering as well as the theory, and to be able to use them in a workplace setting.
3. What are the benefits of learning through an apprenticeship?
The benefits of learning through an apprenticeship are to be able to gain knowledge from fellow engineers from their many years of experience of both product and working knowledge. These invaluable skills and information could only be passed across in certain circumstances by working alongside fellow engineers in the field, rather than in a classroom.
Being able to learn and transfer these skills into my everyday working life and making work an enjoyable place.
4. How has this apprenticeship helped you to progress in your career?
It has helped me to use my initiative more effectively whether that be problem solving on my own or within the fantastic team that I work within.
5. Tell us about the support you have received from your manager/site and your training provider.
The support I have had within the engineering department has been phenomenal, initially I was apprehensive due to my gender believing engineering was predominantly a male dominated domain, however since starting my apprenticeship with Pilgrims my previous misconceptions were misguided. The engineering team and management have all been welcoming, made me feel at ease and feel like a valued contributing member of the team.
6. What advice would you give to somebody that isn’t sure whether to go to university or to do an apprenticeship?
Do some research into the roles that you are interested in and if feel like you would benefit from something more hands on rather than a theory biased programme than I would recommend an apprenticeship.