janerio
16-05-2011, 10:37 AM
Hi all!
I've been trying to break into this industry for some time. Unfortunately its proven more difficult than I expected! I've resorted to contacting companies and asking if I can "tag along" and do some voluntary work a few days a week to get the experience for the NVQ. A couple of companies have got back to me. I have some experience in this industry doing basic pipework, hanging units, etc.
I'm just wondering if anyone out there has volunteered with a company and found it worthwhile? My problem is, when a company takes on an apprentice, they see the apprentice as an investment in the business so they go out of their way to ensure he/she is learning everything correctly. As a volunteer who is just tagging along to gain experience, i'm just a little worried I will be pushed aside as the engineers wont see any benefit in going out of their way to train me up.
So has anyone found offering their services for free a success in chasing down this elusive NVQ?
I've been trying to break into this industry for some time. Unfortunately its proven more difficult than I expected! I've resorted to contacting companies and asking if I can "tag along" and do some voluntary work a few days a week to get the experience for the NVQ. A couple of companies have got back to me. I have some experience in this industry doing basic pipework, hanging units, etc.
I'm just wondering if anyone out there has volunteered with a company and found it worthwhile? My problem is, when a company takes on an apprentice, they see the apprentice as an investment in the business so they go out of their way to ensure he/she is learning everything correctly. As a volunteer who is just tagging along to gain experience, i'm just a little worried I will be pushed aside as the engineers wont see any benefit in going out of their way to train me up.
So has anyone found offering their services for free a success in chasing down this elusive NVQ?