My name is Lucy King, I am 20 years old and from Bristol. I am completing the final year of a three-year advanced technical data apprenticeship at Airbus in Filton. At the end of my apprenticeship, I will have achieved a level 3 BTEC and NVQ.
It was my sister who first recommended apprenticeships to me, after she took one. In my school the main focus was on the university pathway, with relatively little information being given about apprenticeships. We had talks from several companies about them, but during our “future planning” time we were always told to focus on applying for university.
I have to say: the apprenticeship has exceeded all my expectations. It has provided numerous opportunities for interesting work experience and I feel that I am a trusted member of the team. I can use what I have learned academically and apply it straight away to the office, which has really aided my understanding. I have a lot of support from everyone I deal with in Airbus, as everyone wants you to succeed.
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I complete placements in different teams, which makes life very interesting. I am always learning new things and gaining different experiences. My confidence grows every day. I am currently completing a placement in the wing structure repair team.
People want to share what they are working on and teach you. I also have the opportunity to volunteer for Stem (science, technology, engineering and maths) activities to promote the benefits of engineering apprenticeships to other young people, which I really enjoy as I am so enthusiastic about what this apprenticeship has provided for me in terms of knowledge and skills.
Everyone that I have worked with has welcomed me and helped me achieve. My line manager, Joe Neath, supports me with everything I want to do. He helps me achieve my goals and makes sure we all have lots of opportunities to develop ourselves.
My favourite thing about being an apprentice is seeing all the different departments, how they link and how my work is utilised. I like that, no matter what team I am in, I have a network of contacts and people who always want to help me or just see how I am getting on.
I think apprenticeships are better than university. You get experience at the same time as an academic qualification - you can see how your qualification is used straight away.
Both my parents were happy with my decision to become an apprentice. I have already secured a job in Airbus for after I have completed my apprenticeship. There were lots different job opportunities for when I finished my apprenticeship. Airbus is such a big company; there are so many opportunities for progression or even a change in career without leaving.
I would 100 per cent recommend an apprenticeship. You can apply your academic studies to the working environment straight away, making it easier to learn. You gain experience and from the apprenticeship, which helps you decide what job you want to finish with. You also earn while you learn.
