In collaboration with National Apprenticeship Week 2017, Eastleigh College Engineering apprentices were put to the test when asked to lead a lesson of their own. Lecturers took a back seat while the students took the opportunity to prove how much they’ve learned so far through practical demonstrations. 

The apprentices decided to focus the operation of complex machinery, including the range of functions used within their industry and applying these within strict health and safety guidelines. The project was a great way for students to articulate the skills and knowledge they have to both their peers and their lecturer, and therefore recognise how far they’ve come since starting their Apprenticeships.

Charlie Cartwright, Level 2 Apprentice Marine Engineer at Dasic Marine Ltd, enjoyed leading the class, “I demonstrated how to use the lathe correctly, efficiently and safely. You don’t realise how much you know until you’re in charge!” Charlie hopes to become a successful Marine Engineer in the future, working on pumps and engines for yachts. 

Engineering Lecturer, Steve Paynter, was impressed with the detail the apprentices were able to give him during their demonstrations. “I thought the demonstrations were delivered well; they were fluent, thorough, and conveyed to me the expanse of high-level, industry-specific skills they are learning. 

“Apprenticeships are key in helping young people understand work processes, and actually being able to apply their knowledge.”

To find out more about Apprenticeships at Eastleigh College, please visit our Apprenticeships information page, email experts@eastleigh.ac.uk, or call 023 8091 1299.