MUKHTAAR Adam, a 20 year old Junior Electrician at Harlow College has made the incredible journey from ESOL student, to Electrical Apprentice and is now a permanent, full-time member of staff with the Minor Works team. For National Apprenticeships Week, he’s shared his experiences with us to tell us why he choose the route of an Apprentice.

What course did you study when you were a student here?

I started in 2015 with ESOL, English and Maths. I then moved on to Level 1 and Level 2 Electrical Installation and then I continued with a Level 3 Apprenticeship.

What made you decide to become an Apprentice with the Minor Works team at Harlow College?

I saw it was a great opportunity and the team have been really helpful and supportive, especially my manager Tony Mulvey.

What were the main skills that you learned whilst doing your Apprenticeship?

I learned aspects of electrical installation and how to test it, which all went with what I was learning in the classroom. I’ve also learned many more skills such as putting walls up, plumbing, laying flooring as well as painting and decorating.

Was it important for you to be earning a wage at the same time as studying?

Absolutely, yes. I was able to pay my bills and live more independently. I also knew that I did not have to take a loan from the Government if I wanted to do a Degree Apprenticeship. I think it’s the best way to get the skills and qualifications and be able to get a job at the end of it.

Do you think apprentices are more likely to be offered employment by the company at the end of their training, compared to those who haven’t had the same level of experience in the world of work?

Yes, because you already know what to do in the role through the experience of doing the job as an Apprentice. The person in the classroom is only learning the theory side of things, so you will definitely have more experience.

Now that you’ve been made a full-time employee with the College, do you feel that your apprenticeship training will help you in your daily job role?

Yes, mainly everything that I do here is electrical and that’s exactly what I trained to do in my Apprenticeship. I feel that I got the foundation of knowledge that I needed to do my role here at the College.

What message would you give to anybody considering an apprenticeship?

I would say it’s the best route to become a professional in whatever you want to be! You get paid at the same time as getting the qualification and experience and in my experience, you’re more likely to get a job at the end of it!

https://www.harlow-college.ac.uk/study-options/apprenticeships/become-an-apprentice