My First Year as a Jaguar Land Rover Degree Apprentice: An Honest Review

The "Why": Chasing a Career, Not Debt

During year 13, I was determined to secure a degree apprenticeship. I applied to over 50 apprenticeships, attended many assessment centres (even one at JLR but wasn’t accepted🥲), all while balancing my studies and part-time work. My “why” included earning a decent salary and avoiding student debt.

I’m a DTS degree apprentice, studying at the University of Warwick while working at JLR. Initially, I was applying to anything I could find with no real guidance. I found myself applying to job roles without a clear understanding of what they entailed. But in my second year of applying, I had more time to research, time I didn’t have during A-levels. Compared to other apprenticeships, the work-life balance at JLR is a massive benefit. A platform like ApprenticeWatch would have benefitted me as it helps you refine your choices more efficiently.

The Application Struggle: Dealing with Rejection

Dealing with rejection was my biggest challenge. Putting so much time and energy into multi stage processes to then get rejected can be extremely difficult to navigate. However following up and requesting feedback and using it as a learning experience is the key to eventually securing an offer.

When it came to my CV, I focused heavily on soft skills like communication and teamwork. JLR doesn’t require you to have a technical background, which worked in my favour. I was able to mention part-time work, virtual experience, group projects, and hobbies such as sports when asked about my potential. At first, I was struggling to even get past the first stages and land interviews. After receiving feedback from mentors, I realised my CV needed work, among other things. A tool like the ApprenticeWatch AI CV Optimiser would have helped.

Top Tip My number one tip for the interview stage is to take part in highly critical mock interviews. If you’re asked to present something, record yourself and watch it back. It’s uncomfortable but incredibly helpful. Combine this with doing your research, and you’ll be far more prepared.

A Week in My Life: Balancing Work and Uni

JLR offers hybrid working. I usually go into the office once a week, but this is flexible. One day a week is given for university study, and I usually spend 1–2 hours per day on uni work after I’ve completed my job responsibilities. During a typical week, I work on tasks assigned by my manager and catch up with the team daily.

Here’s an example of what my week usually looks like:

Currently, I’m working on becoming more confident in Python and SQL. Coming from a non-technical background, this has taken time to get used to, but learning through real projects has helped me massively.

The Ups and Downs: Challenges and Perks

Time management has been my biggest challenge so far. Balancing deadlines from both university and work can be stressful. The added pressure of losing your place on the course if you fail two attempts at an assessment doesn’t make it any easier (first attempt and re-sit, mitigating circumstances are considered). But JLR has many systems in place such as my mentor, line manager, department early careers advisor, and access to the central early careers team.

My first year at JLR has been incredibly enjoyable. There’s always something new to get involved in beyond my day-to-day work. One of the biggest benefits has been earning a decent salary which has given me independence. People often assume that doing an apprenticeship affects your social life, but I’ve found the opposite. I’ve gone on multiple holidays and attended more social events. Another key benefit has been the opportunity to network with like-minded individuals, both at university and in the workplace. Senior colleagues are always willing to offer advice and support, even with their busy schedules.

Some pictures of the last year:

Final Thoughts and Advice

The process of securing an offer can feel like you’re facing endless rejection. Take each one as an opportunity to reflect and grow which will allow you to reach your goal.

I advise all aspiring apprentices to have clear goals and aspirations. Whatever stage you're at, try to prepare the best you can and don’t be complacent. I recommend having a mentor or mentors who can guide you along this journey. This is what made a massive difference for me as I failed to recognise my weaknesses.

Here are my final tips:

• Have clear goals: Know what you want and why you want it.
• Always be prepared: Don't get complacent at any stage of the process.
• Find a mentor: Their guidance can help you recognise your own weaknesses and strengths.
• Use the right tools: To make your search easier, use a platform like ApprenticeWatch. You can view all available opportunities in one place and even use their Map View to find roles close to home. Good luck!