Application Process

An exciting and varied future starts here

To apply for our Modern Apprenticeship programme, simply complete our online application form. If your application is successful, you’ll then be invited to attend an assessment centre where you’ll complete practical testing, occupational ability testing and a competency based interview. For the final stage, selected applicants will then be invited back for a competency based interview.

What will the different tests involve?

Verbal: This will assess your spelling and grammar.

Numerical: These tests will involve simple arithmetic.

Mechanical: Here you’ll solve a series of mechanical problems, usually in diagram form.

Structure tests: You’ll be required to demonstrate your ability to climb structures as some of the trades will require you to work at heights.

Dexterity tests: This will measure your hand speed and fine precision skills.

Mechanical tests: Here you’ll solve a series of practical mechanical problems.

What is the dress code for the practical testing?

The practical assessment will require you to wear outdoor clothing and hard soled shoes such as walking boots. Football colours are not permitted.

What is a competency based interview?

Past performance is an excellent indicator of future performance. So, the interview is structured in such a way that our questions will enable you to demonstrate how your skills match the key competencies we’re looking for. For example we’ll ask such questions as “Can you give me an example of a time when you’ve demonstrated effective planning and organising skills?” or “Tell me about a time when you’ve shown you’re a good team player.” Your responses should be structured to describe a situation or task, the action you took and the end result. View the competency based interview guide.

Please note: all successful candidates will undergo pre-employment suitability screening - read more about this here (pdf, 34kb).