Elliot, Triumph

Age: 19

School: St Ninian’s

Background

After completing my GCSEs I went on to the college to study the Foundation Apprenticeship in Engineering Level 3 National Certificate. In particular, I enjoyed the Sciences, Business Studies and Geography at school. 

Dad encouraged me to go for the apprenticeship. My grandad actually used to work here at Triumph under its previous name – this really helped to inspire me to follow a path in engineering.  Engineers came in to do the talks whilst I was at school to inform us what it’s like to work in the field and what a career path could be. These talks were very useful and sparked my interest in looking further into the prospects of training options.

My previous work experience had been with Braddan Primary School. Ultimately, the placement helped me to realise that working in schools wasn’t for me, and supported me in the decision that I definitely wanted to pursue engineering!

Getting qualified

I’m currently in the 2^nd year of my apprenticeship with Triumph. At college, I completed the National Certificate, and now working towards a Higher National Certificate alongside my work at Triumph.

I would like to continue studying after the apprenticeship has been completed. It’s soon going to be possible to undertake a Higher National Diploma Degree through the I’m potentially interested in completing a business management course, which would open up some more opportunities for me to progress into more senior roles.

What has been a highlight so far?

I really enjoyed college (more than I thought I would!). We were a small group on the course (about 10) and all got along really well – this made for very good team working and made the course very enjoyable. The relaxed environment meant it was possible to have a laugh but also work hard on the course. In the college environment it’s possible to get on with the tutors more – they even had a laugh too and it was great to be able to talk to them like a normal person, which helps the learning process and to be comfortable to seek support when it’s needed.

Have you encountered any challenges?

 It was a change getting used to early shifts! Compared to the college hours, getting used to the shift work and early starts has been an adjustment, but it keeps things flexible – the perk of starting early, means you’re finished early. HNC has been a step up from the National Certificate as well, it’s a higher level of learning to build on alongside the apprenticeship.

Advice

You definitely need to make sure you do the work and keep on top of everything! Don’t think you can get away with doing everything last minute – it’s worth being organised and work hard at it. I would also suggest paying attention at the careers events, there’s some good freebies out there but it’s a great opportunity to speak to people so don’t overlook the chance to find out more about the course from people first hand.

If you’re interested, get in touch with the companies on the Island – they’re supportive of helping people to get work experience for a week or do tours to get to know the environment and see if it’s something you really are interested in doing. Most of the companies are very welcoming to show people who might be interested in pursuing a career in the field. I know Triumph are great if you want to ring up directly to spend some time here, they will find a way of accommodating it.