Course: SVQ Social Services Children and Young People SCQF 7

Location: Invergordon

Employer: Highland Council

Why I chose a Modern Apprenticeship?

"I chose this course because it allowed me to study while working in a relevant role. It was a great way to expand my knowledge and understanding while continuing to earn and do a job I love."

My learning experience

"The coursework was easily accessible online, and I set aside time each day to check the Proof Positive app to ensure I was on track and recording evidence. Each week, I set goals for completing and submitting written work. My course assessor was a fantastic source of support, always there to help with any challenges I faced."

Skills gained

"Completing my apprenticeship helped me develop strong time management skills. My IT and communication skills have also improved significantly. Most importantly, the course gave me the confidence to continue learning, and I have since progressed to a degree programme."

Most rewarding moments

"The most rewarding part of my apprenticeship was achieving my goal and being able to say I had passed. I was completely self-motivated to earn the qualification, but sharing the news with my manager and course assessor was a great feeling of accomplishment."

Next steps

"After completing my apprenticeship, I was accepted into a BA in Child and Youth Studies. The skills I gained during my apprenticeship have helped me manage my time and study effectively. Long term, I want to continue working in education, as I am passionate about supporting ASN children and their families."

Would you recommend a Modern Apprenticeship?

"Absolutely! A Modern Apprenticeship is a fantastic way to develop your skills while staying in employment. It provided me with valuable experience and gave me a deeper understanding of my role within a school."

Final thoughts

"My course assessor, Jackie Mooney, was an incredible support throughout my studies. She was approachable, positive, and extremely knowledgeable. Jackie made the course enjoyable and was always there to reassure me in moments of self-doubt."

Course: SVQ Fabrication & Welding Engineering SCQF 6
Location: Stornoway
Employer: Navantia UK

Why I chose this course
"Originally, I planned to do a deck cadetship in the merchant navy, but I ultimately chose this apprenticeship because both my grandfathers and my uncle worked at the Arnish yard for many years as platers and pipefitters. It also offered a variety of career paths. Another big factor was that the training was all based locally, meaning I wouldn’t have to travel between the island and the mainland, and I could earn while I learned."

My learning experience
"The apprenticeship is a mix of on-site and college-based learning over three years. Most of the training happens at college in the beginning, but as time goes on, you spend more time on-site. A typical day in the yard involves welding and fabricating steel components and sections for a range of projects, from ocean-going vessels to subsea manifolds."

Skills gained
"Throughout my apprenticeship, I’ve earned welder coding certifications in FCAW (Flux Cored Arc Welding) and gained hands-on experience using grinders, burning torches, plasma cutters, wiring, plating, CAD, lathes, and more. These skills have been developed through both college training and practical experience in the yard. I’ve also improved my communication skills while working with colleagues."

Achievements
"During my apprenticeship, I’ve earned an NC in Engineering Systems, an SVQ Level 2 in Performing Engineering Operations, and a Lloyd’s welder certification. I’m now working towards my SVQ Level 3 in Performing Engineering Operations. Another highlight has been meeting people I wouldn’t have had the chance to meet otherwise."

Next steps
"After completing my apprenticeship, I plan to stay at the yard for a while to become a time-served welder. Beyond that, I’m not entirely sure yet, but I’d like to explore offshore or deep-sea opportunities, as I originally intended."

Advice for future apprentices
"I’d definitely recommend this apprenticeship to anyone looking to enter the engineering sector, learn a trade, and earn while they train. It’s also a great option for those who want to stay on the island rather than travel to the mainland for further education. Plus, the skills you gain can open up many different career paths."

Course: SVQ Electrical Installation SCQF 7
Location: Stornoway
Employer: Lewis Builders Ltd

Why I chose a Modern Apprenticeship?

"I chose a Modern Apprenticeship because I prefer hands-on learning. Practical, on-the-job training helps me apply theoretical knowledge in real-world situations. The ability to earn while I learn was also a great bonus."

My learning experience

"My apprenticeship allows me to develop both theoretical and technical skills in a safe working environment under the supervision of experienced tradesmen. I split my time between college and working on-site with Lewis Builders."

Skills gained

"I have gained many technical skills related to the electrical trade, including adaptability and teamwork. My communication skills have also improved through problem-solving and working collaboratively. So far, I’ve had the opportunity to work on a variety of projects, including new builds, care homes, factories, and even a barge."

Achievements

"One of the most rewarding aspects of my apprenticeship has been working alongside a great team. My employers check in regularly to ensure I’m progressing well at both work and college, and they have recognised my hard work. A highlight of my college experience was having my booth displayed as an example for next year’s class."

Next steps

"After completing my three-year apprenticeship, I will have a recognised qualification as an electrician. I hope to stay with my current employer, as I don’t want to move off the island, but I also plan to continue learning and developing my skills."

Advice for future apprentices

"I would highly recommend a Modern Apprenticeship to anyone who prefers learning by doing. It’s also a great way to earn an income without the financial burden of student loans."

Course: Electrical Installation SCQF 7
Location: Stornoway
Employer: A. Campbell Electrical Services LTD

Why did you choose a Modern Apprenticeship?

"I chose this apprenticeship because I’ve been interested in becoming an electrician for a long time. It’s a great industry to get into, with plenty of opportunities once you complete your apprenticeship."

My learning experience

"No two days are the same. Some jobs take longer, while others can be completed in a day or less, which keeps the work interesting. I’m constantly learning from those around me on the job, which helps me build a strong understanding of the trade."

Skills gained

"Every day, I pick up new skills from the people I work with. Everyone has their own way of doing things, which helps me figure out the methods that work best for me."

Achievements

"The end-of-block reviews have been really rewarding. They highlight areas where I’m doing well and where I can improve, giving me clear goals to work towards."

Next steps

"I plan to take additional courses to expand my knowledge of electrical work. My goal is to develop a deep understanding of the trade that sets me apart."

Advice for future apprentices

"A Modern Apprenticeship is a great way to build a secure future. The skills you learn will always be in demand, whether you stay in your current job or look for new opportunities."

Course: Joinery and Carpentry SCQF 6

Location: Stornoway

Employer: Calmax Construction Ltd

Why I chose a Modern Apprenticeship

"I wanted to gain more skills and experience to set myself up for the future."

My Learning Experience

"Every day, I’m learning a trade and developing new skills. My work involves building kit houses, including roofing, first fix, and second fix joinery."

Skills Gained

"I now have a solid understanding of how to build houses from start to finish."

Achievements

"One of my biggest achievements has been gaining the confidence to complete jobs on my own, using the knowledge I’ve gained both in college and on-site."

Next steps

"I plan to continue growing, improving, and learning with Calmax Construction Ltd."

Advice for future apprentices

"I would definitely recommend an apprenticeship. It’s highly rewarding, and you gain valuable skills that will help you build a strong future."

Personal reflection

"There’s nothing more satisfying than looking back at something you’ve built and saying, ‘I made that.’ It gives you a real sense of pride and confidence."

Course: Engineering Systems

Location: Stornoway

Employer: Navantia UK

Why did you choose a Modern Apprenticeship?

"I chose a Modern Apprenticeship because it allows me to earn while I learn. It provides real-life, hands-on work experience that will prepare me for when I qualify. A Modern Apprenticeship also offers job security, certification, valuable qualifications, and opportunities for career progression."

My Learning Experience

"As an apprentice, my day can vary depending on if I am on-site or at college. In college, I develop both my practical skills and theoretical knowledge. I take part in NC and SVQ Engineering classes. The NC course includes practical and theory-based topics such as MMA welding, lathe work, workshop skill classes, maths, engineering systems, and CAD. The SVQ classes include MIG Welding training, IT, engineering systems, pneumatics and hydraulics. This semester also includes a day a week out on-site."

Skills Gained

"My apprenticeship has helped me develop a wide range of technical skills, including different welding techniques like MIG and MMA/Stick. I’ve also learned to read and understand engineering drawings, which allows me to complete projects efficiently using the right materials, measurements, and tools. Beyond technical skills, my apprenticeship has helped me improve my problem-solving, safety awareness, attention to detail, teamwork, communication, and confidence."

Achievements

"The most rewarding part of my apprenticeship has been passing my NC welding tests and beginning my practice for welding codings."

Next Steps

"After completing my apprenticeship, I hope to progress in my engineering career and become a welding inspector."

Advice for Future Apprentices

"I would recommend a Modern Apprenticeship because it provides both practical experience and theoretical knowledge. It gives you the chance to work in a real-life setting, earn a wage while learning, and gain job security upon completion. Plus, the qualifications and certification you receive will help you advance your career."

Course: SVQ Hairdressing SCQF 6
Location: Thurso
Employer: Hair at 21

Why I chose a Modern Apprenticeship
"I felt that a modern apprenticeship would look great on my CV, and it’s a fantastic way to learn while working on the job every day."

My learning experience
"I help keep the salon clean and tidy, which is an important part of the job. I also get to watch and learn from the stylists as they cut and colour hair. Every client is different, so I’m constantly seeing new styles and techniques."

Skills gained
"I’ve learned so much from the experienced stylists I work with. They’ve been in the industry for a long time, and their knowledge has helped me grow my own skills."

Achievements
"I’ve made great progress in my apprenticeship, including passing both my colour and cutting assessments."

Next Steps
"My goal is to continue in hairdressing and build a successful career."

Advice for Future Apprentices
"I’d definitely recommend an apprenticeship because it allows you to have a full-time job while learning at the same time. It’s also a great addition to your CV. My advice is to do what feels right for you and think about where you want to be in five years time."

Name: Anna Swanson

Qualification: SVQ Business and Administration SCQF 6

Employer: DSRL

Why did you choose a Modern Apprenticeship?  

​​I chose this apprenticeship as I was aware of the fantastic training Dounreay provides. In Lockdown I grew an interest in business and decided that it was the route I wanted to go down. When I heard about this apprenticeship I straight away knew I wanted to apply, I thought it would be a great way to start my career as Dounreay offers so many great opportunities to its staff.

Do you have any scheduled classes as part of your apprenticeship? How do these take place and how do they fit in with your working schedule?             

​​The course was very flexible and fitted in with my day-to-day work very well. We had a couple of classes at the start of the year to introduce us to the course and then we were able to work on our portfolio whenever suited us, as long as we were meeting deadlines, which was never an issue.

What do you think about the style of teaching and/or support you received from assessors/lecturers? 

​​My lecturer was very approachable and helpful. I felt able to email her whenever I was unsure of something or needed more information and she would always get back to me or arrange a video call for us to discuss things further.

What challenges have you encountered during your apprenticeship and how did you overcome them?     

​​While completing my SVQ and my day-to-day tasks, I also studied for an ECITB (Engineering Construction Industry Training Board) Certificate in Project Controls. This was very challenging as Project Controls was very new to me. I overcame this challenge by asking my colleagues for more information and by reading through the procedures, guidance notes and forms relating to Project Controls at Dounreay.

What are your next steps after completing your Modern Apprenticeship? 

I am now in a full-time administration post and am thoroughly enjoying it. I plan to start an HNC this year which will allow me to study a Degree in Business Management. I am aiming to become a Project Controller and I hope that in time, once I have gained more experience and completed these qualifications, I can progress to working at management level.

What advice would you give to those considering a Modern Apprenticeship? 

​​To anyone considering a Modern Apprenticeship, go for it! It has been the best decision I have ever made. My teamwork, communication, IT skills and problem solving skills have improved significantly during my apprenticeship. My knowledge on Dounreay and the Nuclear industry as a whole, has significantly advanced too. Overall, I have become a much more confident person.

What has been the highlight of your Modern Apprenticeship?      

​​It is hard to pick one highlight as there have been so many positive experiences during my time as an apprentice. However, our team-building trip to Loch Eil was an amazing experience, where I developed great relationships with my colleagues and also improved my team-work, communication and problem-solving skills. I had to really push myself out with my comfort zone during the trip and I am so glad that I did as I have realised my capabilities and am very grateful for the opportunity.

Name: Steven Rollo

Qualification: SVQ Fabrication and Welding Engineering at SCQF Level 6 

Job Title: ​Welder-Fabricator

Employer: Lochshell Engineering

Why did you choose a Modern Apprenticeship?                

I chose a Modern Apprenticeship as it is a lifelong qualification where I can learn skills within the Welding and Fabricating industry. It also gave me an opportunity to work alongside experienced staff picking up specific skills crucial to the industry.

Do you have any scheduled classes as part of your MA?

At the start of my Modern Apprenticeship, I did have scheduled classes which would take place in person on a weekly basis. I'm now in my 4th year and all my work has been online through OneFile.

How do they fit in with your working schedule?                

I do a couple of hours most nights at home online completing my OneFile portfolio. 

What do you think about the style of teaching and/or support you received from assessors/lecturers? 

I think the teaching style is very good. I have received lots of support from my college lecturer Terry Elder who has always given me a quick response when I have a question about my OneFile work. My assessor Liam Sutherland has also been supportive too whenever I have had a question or was unsure about something.

What challenges have you encountered during your apprenticeship and how did you overcome them?  

​​I would say the online OneFile work to start with took a bit to get into the swing of how to do it such as setting criteria and referencing it to the job card but I contacted Liam Sutherland and Terry Elder and they supported me and helped me understand it.

What are your next steps after completing your Modern Apprenticeship? 

To carry on within the industry improving my skills along the way as I really enjoy it and will try to be the best I can be.

What advice would you give to those considering a Modern Apprenticeship? 

​​I would say a Modern Apprenticeship isn’t easy. It takes a lot of work and commitment to get yourself through it but if you apply yourself and get the work done, it more than pays itself off when you have completed it.

What has been the highlight of your Modern Apprenticeship?

The highlight of my apprenticeship was the assembly of Whitby Bridge, seeing it being fitted and being part of a major engineering project, which required us all to work as a team. 

Anything else you would like to tell us about your experience?      

My boss Donald Gow and my tradesman Charlie Donaldson, have been really supportive of me throughout my apprenticeship and often share their own knowledge and experience.