Student Blog | Mechanical Engineering Apprentice Fraser Macleod
Mechanical Engineering Apprentice Fraser Macleod tells us about his experience as part of Apprenticeship Week Scotland
Name: Fraser Michie Macleod
Age: 16
Apprenticeship: Mechanical Maintenance Engineering
Why did you choose to do an apprenticeship?
I chose to do an apprenticeship because I believe it offers a wide range of practical skills and knowledge. The MA scheme also offers the chance to complete 3 different qualifications which include an NC, an SVQ2 and an SVQ3 which are all well recognized qualifications in the engineering industry. It is also very appealing to young people as you earn while you learn. It also one-upped going to University as you are able to gain your recognized qualifications from your home town.
What is special/unique about an apprenticeship at the college? What opportunities did it offer you?
For me previously, an apprenticeship offered me the chance to be able to complete the apprenticeship without having to travel away from the island. The college is also is equipped with a wide range of different engineering machinery which means they can offer a healthy amount of courses and practical experience to any current or future apprentices. You learn from experienced tradesmen that know what they are talking about.
What skills and experience did your apprenticeship provide?
My apprenticeship provided me with core skills that I may not have had before I started the MA. It provides good practical skills and knowledge on how to operate a wide range of machinery which will help you when you progress on after the completion of your Modern Apprenticeship. I have also gained a strong amount of health and safety knowledge from my lecturers and through various course units.
What would you say to any local business thinking about taking on and supporting an apprentice?
Any local business thinking about taking on an apprentice should snap at the opportunity. It enables a young person to develop great practical skills and being a qualified tradesman at the end of it. It’s also great for the business as they are supported with funding. They would also end up with a qualified tradesman that they would then employ as a fully qualified worker in the trade that they specialize in.
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