Meet Robert, one of our focused Year 13 students completing the T-Level in Engineering, Manufacturing, Processing and Control. Robert recently finished an intensive six-week industry placement at Beverston, a high-tech aerospace manufacturing plant, proving the value of hands-on, real-world experience.
Inside an Aerospace Plant
Robert’s placement at Beverston, which manufactures parts for aerospace companies, gave him a direct look at high-precision engineering. He was instantly involved and found the interactions straightforward: "As soon as I went in, I felt comfortable and I asked loads of questions."
He spent time shadowing different engineers, including two weeks working closely with a colleague named Chris, where he got to grips with advanced machinery. Robert loved this practical side of the work:
"I went everywhere and shadowed a few different people. I got to run the G-code on a Mazak 5 axis drill and export the code that moves the drill to cut along the coordinates which I really enjoyed."
Due to the highly sensitive nature of the work, protecting commercial designs, security was strict.
"I couldn't take photos or any serial numbers," Robert noted, adding that this made the experience feel even more exclusive. This placement confirmed his deep-seated passion, which began early: " I have wanted to be an engineer since I was about 5 years old, I like to design stuff a lot and always have."
CAD vs Reality
One of the biggest lessons Robert learned was the crucial difference between designing a part on a computer and actually manufacturing it.
While the skills learned at The Studio, particularly using Autodesk Fusion 360, translated easily. The placement emphasised how parts must be designed properly to be manufacturable and possible to make.
"Design is what I enjoy, but physically making it can sometimes be impossible. Practical application means there are certain shapes you can design but wouldn't actually be able to make with the drills and machines they have there. Learning this was really valuable."
During his time at Beverston, Robert was involved in creating fixtures, the specialised mounts needed to hold parts during manufacturing. He loved the experience but realised his true passion lies further up the process chain.
Robert highly recommends the T-Level pathway:
"If you like engineering, but you are design orientated, this is a lot more practical and is suited to your learning style and your interests."
His tutor is now helping him find placements with companies that specialise in aerospace design to pursue his career ambition.
Interested in Engineering?
If you're a current Year 11 student interested in creating, designing, and problem-solving, join us for our Engineering Pathway Taster Session or come and experience our specialist facilities at an Open Evening.
