Tsamaija Forsynthe-Gidharry, materials laboratories apprentice at Rolls-Royce, explains why being hands-on doesn’t mean you miss out on learning
“It’s not the case that being an apprentice means you don’t get to do higher-level qualifications. I’m studying for a degree in engineering and advanced manufacturing. And I get to go to Derby University one day a week to study.”
“For me, this apprenticeship was the perfect step after A-levels. I’m involved in real projects. But I don’t miss out on gaining advanced theoretical knowledge either. It’s just that here, I can apply that knowledge straight away in a practical setting—and in a company that’s pioneering amazing things, like hybrid jet engines that can run on electricity.”
“I really like that my work impacts on future innovations. It’s all about advancing what we do—and finding even better solutions. I get to work with a massive range of materials—as you might expect in a company such as Rolls-Royce.”
“I also think that being on an apprenticeship means that you get more learning support than if you were just at university. On each placement, you have a supervisor who’s your first port of call, but there are always lots of experts on hand to help. It means you’re never scared to try new things and stretch your skills.”
To find out more, visit careers.rolls-royce.com
