The Timson Engineering Apprenticeship is based on the national syllabus for either Mechanical or Electrical engineering. At the end of the period successful apprentices will become skilled engineers and receive the Advanced Engineering Certificate issued by SEMTA, the National Training Organisation for Engineering Manufacture.

The first year of the course, which starts in September, involves four days each week in the Timson Training Centre learning the basic engineering skills including the use of different types of machine tools e.g. milling and turning. The fifth day is spent at college studying for a BTEC or City & Guilds certificate. In the following June, apprentices achieve their first engineering qualifications – an NVQ2, the first part of a BTEC which is a 2 year course or a City & Guilds qualification.

During the second year, apprentices will attend Tresham College for one day each week completing the BTEC course or studying for a City & Guilds Level 2/3. Four days will be spent in the factory working towards NVQ3. In the Apprentice Development Section of the machine shop they will manufacture parts which will be used in the building of our printing presses. Also they will spend time in the fitting shop assisting with the assembly and testing of our presses.

Day release continues in the third year with either City & Guilds or perhaps studying for a Higher National Certificate in Electrical/Mechanical Engineering. In the factory, apprentices will continue to work towards their NVQ3.

In the fourth year, apprentices will complete their studies at college and their NVQ3 while specialising as an engineer in either the machine shop or the assembly shop.

Apprentices are paid throughout their apprenticeship. Rates start at just over £100 per week and rise each year. All training fees and books are paid for by the Company. Tools and safety equipment are also provided.

Applications for apprenticeships in our Kettering factory should be addressed to the Personnel Manager in March each year.

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Although this site is updated regularly to reflect changes in current practices, it is intended as a guide only. Specific details will be issued to apprentices at the beginning of their training.