Why Choose an Apprenticeship?

My name is Chris Simpson and I am currently employed within the company as an Engineer. I finished my GCSEs in 2003 and felt as if doing A levels at college was the only way forward. After a whole term of A levels I realised that this wasn’t the way I wanted to progress with education. The very thought of years of pure textbook study was daunting and I felt as if I needed to get involved in real work and more importantly learn some real life working skills that are extremely valuable in employment. I was lucky enough to get an Apprenticeship with e2v and throughout my time I have kept a positive attitude towards work and I am now reaping the rewards from successfully completing the Advanced Modern Apprenticeship scheme.


My name is Joe Hutley, I am a 3rd Year Apprentice Technician. After leaving school with excellent GCSE results, I started A-Levels at Braintree College. My chosen subjects were physics, maths, computing and music technology. After 2 years of study, I had completed my A-levels with good grades.
Upon leaving college, I was faced with a number of choices; university, employment or an apprenticeship. I felt that university would require a lot of self-motivation and endless study, as well as providing very little practical work experience. However, I saw the importance of continuing to learn new skills. I applied for a number of apprenticeships in engineering and electronics sectors. I had always had an interest in electronics and technology that was backed by GCSEs and A-Levels in science, ICT and technology subjects. I was lucky enough to be offered an apprenticeship with e2v.

What does an e2v apprenticeship involve?

An e2v apprenticeship provides college-based learning, practical work experience and a good rate of pay.
New apprentices start their careers with 6-months at a top engineering centre to learn practical skills such as; soldering, electrical wiring, turning (lathes), handcrafting, welding etc. They can then apply these new skills in a work environment and gain valuable experience.

The whole apprenticeship is backed by top qualifications (NVQ & BTEC up to level 3), which are studied for at college on day-release. These qualifications are a standard requirement for most jobs in the engineering sector.

What are the benefits of an e2v apprenticeship?

• 3 year contract
• Competitive pay, with yearly rises
• Earn recognised qualifications
• Gain valuable industry experience
• Become a qualified technician/engineer
• Possibility for university education, sponsored by e2v