Frequently asked questions
What are the job prospects at the end of training?
We will guarantee all our apprentices who start in September 2008 a permanent job at the end of the 4 year programme subject to successful achievement of performance standards.
What qualifications can I achieve?
ONC and NVQ Level 3 in a Mechanical or Electrical discipline and a driving licence.
How long is the programme?
The programme runs for 4 years from September 2008.
Do I have a mentor?
Yes, all apprentices will be allocated a mentor who will support them throughout the whole programme through regular discussions and meetings. The mentor will generally be an experienced member of staff within the same department but not your normal team to ensure they understand the working environment, skills and experience required to successfully complete the apprenticeship. In addition, you will have a buddy in your team who can provide day to day advice. You will also have a dedicated team leader who will be responsible for you and ensure you have the right level of support and encouragement to complete the programme.
What pay do I receive now and what does it go to?
Joining a FTSE 250 company, you can expect to be handsomely rewarded for your hard work. Your pay will increase annually and our pay ranges are:
| Area | Salary |
|---|---|
| Essex | starting £11,967 rising to £21,275 in year 4 |
What if I decide I don’t like it?
We hope that you enjoy working for Essex & Suffolk Water and to ensure you make the right decision our recruitment process has been specifically designed to assist you in choosing a career with us. We will assess you against the academic and practical requirements of the scheme and will provide as much information as possible about the company. However if at any point during the programme you have any concerns you should discuss with your mentor, team leader or a member of our human resources team and we will look at your individual situation and agree a course of action that is in the best interests of all concerned.
What if I fail any of the exams throughout the training programme?
You will be supported by your mentor, team leader and tutors to prepare and successfully complete all assessments during the programme. If you do not reach the required standard at any stage we will give you a further opportunity to reach the appropriate level. If you do not reach the assessment standards required we will discuss this with you individually and agree a course of action that is in the best interests of all concerned which may involve repeating a year or leaving the programme.
What is my holiday entitlement?
The annual leave year runs from 1 April to 31 March and you start on 23 days (pro rata) which increases to 28 days depending upon length of service. In addition, you receive 8 statutory holidays.
When can I take my holiday?
You are required to take your holiday at times that the college is closed such as easter, summer, Christmas to ensure that you do not miss any of the training during year one. After that it will be in agreement with your line manager.
How many hours do I work?
You will work 36 hours with the exact start and finish time to be determined by your line manager. When the college is closed you will either be required to attend work or take holidays from your annual leave entitlement.
How do you ensure the safety and wellbeing of apprentices?
The safety of all our people is very important and our training will be supervised by established and experienced employees. We will also ensure that full health and safety awareness is provided along with relevant safety clothing.
How will apprentices be trained?
Throughout the scheme, the emphasis is on learning by doing. The training will include a mix of one to one and small groups both at the workplace and at the relevant training providers sites.
I have not got my actual grades yet. What should I do?
You should clearly indicate on your application form any current and expected grades along with the dates that you have gained them or expect to receive your results. Predicted grades should be supported by a teacher.
I can’t drive, is this a problem?
No, we will provide time and funding to complete an intensive week of driving lessons in year 2 of the programme and you must have passed your test by the end of year 3.
When do I get a company vehicle?
You will normally be provided with a company van in year 4 of the programme.
Will I need to pay back the cost of the driving lessons if I leave before the end of the programme?
Yes, we will recover the full cost of the lessons and test if you leave before the programme finishes.
Where will the positions be based?
They will be based in Hanningfield and Langford in Essex.