Scottish Apprenticeship Week: Daniel Smith

Did you know that in the most recent Scottish Government survey, 95% of Modern Apprenticeship completers were either in work or education? #TalentWithoutLimits

Scottish Apprenticeship Week celebrates the benefits apprenticeships bring to businesses, individuals and the economy. We caught up with former Automotive student, Daniel Smith, to find out what path his life took after he completed his apprenticeship.

Why did you choose Perth College UHI to do your Modern Apprenticeship?

I attended Perth College UHI after leaving school, and I was enrolled on a course which involved work experience/placement - starting with three days at college learning IT, Mathematics and English. After the course had come to an end, I was offered full time employment with the company that I had completed my work experience with. I decided to stay at Perth College UHI because I had been supported very much throughout my time. Perth College UHI is also a very well credited institution, so I was very pleased to have the opportunity to complete my apprenticeship there.

What are the benefits of completing the course within the workplace?

Everything that is learned throughout the course, can be put into practice in the workplace. This provides a more structured and effective way of learning. New skills learned in the workplace, also bring more experience.

What was your biggest challenge during the process?

Getting familiar with working in the automotive industry. However, I had three months previous on my first course to help. Another slight challenge were some of the exams, but I was happy with the structure of them.

How did you find the balance of working and completing a qualification at the same time?

I found the balance absolutely fine. There were good amounts of time at college to complete all of the work. Lots was learned when in the workplace also.

Has the Modern Apprenticeship given you the opportunity to increase and develop your work duties?

Some developments with work duties came after completing my apprenticeship. I was offered a placement on a course to become a MOT tester. This was possible because I had completed my apprenticeship and was a fully qualified technician. The course was offered through Perth College UHI, and I learned new skills and experience on the course. Other developments include carrying out more complex tasks/jobs within the workplace.

What positive experiences have you had during the apprenticeship?

Meeting other students who were completing the same course as I was. Also meeting my lecturers was a positive experience. Having constant support from people such as Andy Tait and Sarah-Jane was very comforting, and I am grateful to have completed my apprenticeship with Perth College UHI.

What do you hope to do in the future?

I hope to continue working and possibly be promoted at work. I also might do further training courses to further my education and skills. The position I am in now with my workplace is comfortable, so I am very pleased with all outcomes of my apprenticeship and experience within the college.

Would you recommend a Modern Apprenticeship to anyone thinking about doing one?

I would recommend this course to others, especially to younger people, as it can provide you with great experience in a relatively short period of time. It can also lead to full time employment in some cases. I found the course to be a great experience.

We offer a wide range of Modern Apprenticeships at Perth College UHI. Find more information here, or get in touch with our National Training Programmes and Employability Manager - Sarah-Jane Urquhart on sarah-jane.urquhart.perth@uhi.ac.uk or 01738 877 254