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Department of Engineering

Blazing a trail with National Apprenticeship Week 2019 

Blazing a trail with National Apprenticeship Week 2019 

‘Blaze a Trail’ was the theme for this year’s National Apprenticeship Week which took place in March. 

The theme supports the Government's ‘Fire it Up’ campaign, designed to highlight the range of opportunities available to apprentices and demonstrating what an apprenticeship can bring to both individuals and employers. 

Joseph Smith is a newly qualified electrician with the Department of Engineering. Having studied electrical engineering at college, Joseph was keen to become an electrician and was advised by his college to find an appropriate apprentice vacancy. He joined the University of Cambridge as an Advanced Electrical Apprentice in September 2016, based at the Department of Electrical Engineering.

Throughout his apprenticeship, Joseph has worked full-time at the University, developing his technical knowledge and practical skills while enjoying hands-on learning. His line manager and workplace mentor have both supported Joseph throughout, and he has had his progress assessed on a regular basis by the training provider.

Joseph says his role is interesting and varied. It involves the installation, maintenance and repair of electrical equipment. “I’ve learned what to do, how to do it and how to know it’s safe,” he said.

This particular apprenticeship can take up to four years to complete, but Joseph took his final exams in February 2019.  

Having completed his apprenticeship, Joseph is keen to continue working at the University as he enjoys the many benefits on offer and finds it a stimulating and supportive working environment. He is a strong advocate for apprenticeships, seeing them as a great way to learn a new skill while building a career.   

Here are just some of the apprenticeships currently being completed by University staff:

  • Leadership and Management Level 5
  • HR Consultant Level 5
  • Project Management Level 4
  • Software Development Technician Level 3
  • Laboratory Technician Level 3
  • Mechanical Engineering Level 3
  • Electrical and Electronic Engineering Level 3

Find out more about apprenticeships at Cambridge. Email apprenticeships@admin.cam.ac.uk

This article has been edited from the University of Cambridge website.

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