Frequently asked questions - Power Engineering Apprenticeship

It’s natural to have lots of questions and we have provided answers to as many as we can below. However, if you have a question that isn't covered here, our Resourcing team at careers@enwl.co.uk will be happy to help.

1. When will applications be open for the 2020 apprentice programme?

Applications will be open from Friday 6 December 2019 right through until the end of February 2020.

2. How long does the programme last?

The programme lasts for 3 years and includes a combination of professional training, practical experience, technical knowledge and competency-based learning.

3. Will I get support achieving further qualifications?

During your apprenticeship we will fund you in continuing your further education by completing a HNC in Electrical and Electronic Engineering. You will also be equipped with the experience and high-quality training to take on a permanent role with us. If you are interested in further study beyond the apprenticeship programme, we will work with you to provide support where we can as part of your ongoing personal development.

4. What are the general working hours?

Our typical working week currently averages 37 hours, but your actual working hours will depend on your apprentice programme and the role you obtain after successfully completing your apprenticeship.

5. What happens at the end of my apprenticeship?

Once you have successfully completed your programme, you will be considered for a permanent role as an Engineer in one of our teams. 

6. If I’m successful, when can I expect to start work?

The apprenticeship will begin in September 2020.

7. What is the age limit to apply for the apprentice programme?

We welcome applications from any candidate whose application meets the minimum criteria.

8. I've applied for similar programmes with Electricity North West before and was unsuccessful, can I apply again?

Yes, you can apply again if you meet the minimum criteria.

9. Will you sponsor me to work in the UK?

We are delighted to accept applications from all candidates, however Electricity North West can't process work permit applications on behalf of candidates as we're not a registered sponsoring employer with the UK Border Agency.

You must have the right to work in the UK without sponsorship from Electricity North West. You will need to state your eligibility to work in the UK on your application, and provide documentary evidence to support this.

10. What will help me prepare?

Preparation is key, have a look at our website and understand who we are and what we do a little more. It’s always good to know the company you are applying to for work.

Getting ready for your interview, think about your experiences at work, during education or extracurricular activities and consider what you have learned and gained from each, and how these experiences might relate to the role you are applying for.

It's good to have a variety of examples to hand and be prepared to explain your direct involvement in a particular situation. Remember to listen to what's being asked of you as this will enable you to demonstrate the skills you have and answer the question fully.

11. What is a competency based interview?

In the interview we’ll assess whether you have the skills and experience required to succeed on the programme. You’ll have the opportunity to tell us about your past experience and achievements, to help us to work out whether you've got the qualities we're looking for in our apprentices.

When thinking about your response it’s worth considering the acronym STAR as this will help ensure you provide us with enough information to answer the questions.

  • Situation - position the example that demonstrates the competency and answers the question
  • Task - explain your involvement
  • Action - explain what you did
  • Result - provide the end result

The interview is structured in such a way that you will be asked for specific examples in support of the role’s key competencies. The questions are very much in the format of "Can you give me an example of..."

While you’re giving your answer, the interviewer will record what you say to assist in the evaluation after the interview is concluded. But don’t be put off by the note-taking. We do it for everyone.

 

Training & Development

Reward

Selection

Back to Main Page