Lennon Columbine, a Level 2 Mechanical Engineering student was inspired to learn more about the sector due to his families career choices and growing up in a ‘hands-on’ practical environment. He described himself as dexterous and explained how he enjoys the application of maths in a practical setting such as the workshop. With this in mind and always having an interest in engineering throughout school, the course was perfect for him to help grow his interests into a career.
Lennon was impressed by the tutors industry experience.
“I had no experience with the subject at school. Engineering has just always seemed interesting to me. It’s a great course, the tutors are really supportive and they all have industry experience, so they know what they are doing. We get treated like adults, which is a big positive for me. The tutors having industry experience was a massive selling point for me when I came to look round. They’ve all done completely different jobs, so there’s a wide range of skills and knowledge there. I also liked that the college have good technologies, facilities and also resources for apprenticeships within the industry.”
The course is regarded highly from previous apprentices.
“I heard good things from previous apprentices that went to Chesterfield College so that helped confirm my decision.”
“I’m enjoying machining the most at the minute, thats where we make components. For example, if we are doing maintenance where a piece is missing, we use the lathe and make the piece to replace what’s missing. We are provided with engineering drawings but you have to use your common sense and initiative too, so that you can fulfil the brief.”
Lennon is keeping an eye out for apprenticeships within the industry.
“I’m currently on a one year Level 2 Course but next year I will be progressing to the two year Level 3 Course. After that, I’m looking at something in maintenance. I have been looking at a job with East Midlands Rail, there’s some apprenticeship opportunities opening up later this year on railway maintenance. I can learn whilst on the job and if I get onto a University Level Apprenticeship, the company I am working for will pay for me to do it, so I don’t have to worry about student debt or fees.”
The practical knowledge is really important for Lennons progression.
“I think the type of course whether that’s practical or classroom depends on the person. If you go down the university route, you’ll have a more in-depth knowledge of engineering but I think you need that practical work too, It’s a big part of it. I suppose it depends on the learner, I’m more practical so college is the right place for me.”