The UK's best apprenticeship
The Defence Science and Technology Laboratory (Dstl), an acknowledged world leader in science, technology and innovation, is excited to be coming to this years What Career Live event at the NEC. This year Dstl has increased the number of apprentices that it wants to recruit to 31. These vacancies cover cyber security, software development, aerospace engineering, electrical engineering, mechanical engineering, data analysis and business Administration Support.
Dstl is not just any employer. Its apprentices get to work on some of the UK’s most exciting and interesting science and technology programmes. Many of them have international and well as national implications. In recent years, for example, current and former apprentices have worked on space satellites, drones, stealth aircraft and tackling the Ebola outbreak in West Africa, to name a few.
Some of DSTL's recent trainees have produced a YouTube video about an innovative project that they have delivered to help tackle cyber attacks on the UK. This is the type of innovative project that our 2017 apprenticeship entrants will be working on.
Jade Ward, Dstl’s Apprenticeship Resourcing Adviser said: "Dstl is justifiably proud of its nationally recognised apprenticeship scheme. Our scheme is different to most others because our apprentices make a contribution to the security, defence and prosperity of the UK. The fact that many of our former apprentices now hold senior positions in Dstl, the MoD and in the private sector is a reflection of the quality of our scheme.
"If you’d like to find out more about our apprenticeship scheme please come and see us on stand A200, next to the visitor’s café and parents and advisors lounge.
Above: Ollie, a first year mechanical engineering apprentice.
Ollie, a first year mechanical engineering apprentice from Bromsgrove said: "I didn’t want to go to University so when I was coming to the end of my course at the South Bromsgrove Sixth Form, I started to look for a local apprenticeship. At the time I wanted to live at home so wasn’t looking much further afield than Birmingham. However, that all changed when I looked at the Dstl apprenticeship programme. The opportunities and training that Dstl offers are second to none, so I knew that I wanted to work for them.
"When it came to moving away from home it wasn’t the easiest but once I had started the apprenticeship at Dstl I knew it was the right decision. The course has already covered many different aspects of mechanical engineering not just on the theory side, but also on the practical side developing hand skills and machining skills."
The quality of Dstl’s programme for School and College leavers has recently been recognised by All About School Leavers. Dstl’s programme is ranked second in the public sector and 32nd overall.
All Dstl’s apprentices have the opportunity to gain internationally recognised qualifications as well as sponsorship towards a degree and post-graduate qualifications. Apprentices can also apply for overseas postings and secondments when they have finished their training.
Dstl’s apprentices are based at our Porton Down site, near Salisbury and Portsdown West site, near Fareham. Relocation packages may be available to outstanding applicants.
Dstl has a diverse, inclusive workforce and welcomes applications from all suitably qualified applicants. Apprentices at Dstl enjoy a range of benefits including a competitive salary and 25 days paid leave a year.
The last day to apply for one of Dstl’s apprenticeships is 31 March 2017.
Further details of Dstl’s apprenticeship programme can be found online on the Civil Service Jobs site and Dstl Early Careers Facebook page.
