Machinist Apprenticeship Instructor/Mentor

## Opportunity Review: Machinist Apprenticeship Instructor/Mentor at the University of Derby This review provides an in-depth look at the Machinist Apprenticeship Instructor/Mentor position at the University of Derby, offering potential candidates valuable insights into this exciting career opportunity.

The University of Derby presents a compelling environment for professionals seeking to make a significant impact. With a Gold rating in the Teaching Excellence Framework (TEF) 2023, the university is recognized for its outstanding student experience and outcomes. This commitment to excellence extends to its staff, fostering an inclusive culture that prioritizes wellbeing and offers ample opportunities for professional growth and skill enhancement. The university's financial strength and ambitious outlook create a stable and dynamic workplace.

The Institute of Education and Skills, where this role resides, is a vital hub for developing future educators and leaders. The **Skills and Apprenticeships** division, in particular, plays a crucial role in bridging the gap between academic learning and industry demands. Through strong partnerships with employers across diverse sectors, the university is dedicated to widening access and promoting social mobility by offering practical, hands-on learning experiences that equip individuals with the knowledge and skills needed to excel in their chosen careers. This role is directly involved in this mission, contributing to the growth and resilience of the regional economy.

As a Machinist Apprenticeship Instructor/Mentor, you will be at the forefront of training the next generation of precision engineers for a globally recognized industry leader, Rolls-Royce Submarines, and its extensive supply chain. This is a unique opportunity to leverage your practical expertise and passion for teaching within a cutting-edge facility, the Nuclear Skills Academy.

Key Responsibilities and Impact:

• Directly influence the development of apprentices by planning, delivering, and assessing high-quality training in CNC machining, milling, turning, grinding, and inspection.
• Provide essential underpinning theoretical knowledge to complement practical skills.
• Nurture and guide apprentices through individual and group mentoring, fostering their confidence, competence, and overall progress.
• Integrate crucial soft skills including English, Maths, and professional behaviours into the apprenticeship journey.
• Collaborate with colleagues and employers to ensure a seamless and impactful apprenticeship experience.
• Contribute to the high standards of safety, quality, and performance required in advanced manufacturing.

Advantages for Candidates:

• Make a tangible difference by directly contributing to the development of a highly skilled workforce in a critical industry.
• Work with state-of-the-art facilities at the Nuclear Skills Academy.
• Gain experience in a partnership with a prestigious and globally recognized organization like Rolls-Royce Submarines.
• Benefit from the University of Derby's commitment to staff development, with opportunities to enhance your teaching and mentoring skills.
• Enjoy a generous benefits package including 47 days of annual leave (pro rata), access to the Teacher’s Pension Scheme, and a comprehensive suite of wellbeing support.
• Work within a flexible and supportive environment that values your contribution.

Key Considerations for Candidates:

• This role is employed by the University of Derby but operates in close partnership with Rolls-Royce Submarines.
• Nationality Requirement: Due to the nature of the work conducted by Rolls-Royce Submarines, individuals must be UK nationals or, in specific MoD-approved cases, dual nationals from a non-ITAR country. The University of Derby cannot sponsor international workers under the Skilled Worker route for this position.
• Security Clearance (SC): While not a requirement for appointment, there may be a future possibility of needing to undertake an SC check due to the evolving nature of the Nuclear Skills Academy.
• Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) Check: An enhanced DBS check will be required as part of the employment process.

About You: Your Expertise and Passion

The ideal candidate will possess a strong foundation in machining and CNC operations, supported by relevant vocational qualifications (Level 3 or above). Experience in training, mentoring, and assessing apprentices is highly valued. While a workplace assessors’ qualification is desirable, a clear understanding of effective teaching, learning, and assessment practices is paramount.

Essential Attributes:

• Professional Experience: Robust practical experience in machining and CNC operations.
• Qualifications: Relevant vocational qualifications at Level 3 or 4 (or higher).
• Apprenticeship Delivery Knowledge: Solid understanding of how apprenticeships are structured and delivered.
• Training & Mentoring Skills: Proven experience in training, mentoring, and assessing apprentices.
• Vision for Education: A clear understanding of effective teaching, learning, and assessment.
• Teamwork: Ability to collaborate effectively with colleagues and employers.
• Individual Support: Confidence in supporting apprentices to reach their full potential.
• Teaching Qualification (Desirable/Willingness to Obtain): Ideally, you will hold a teaching qualification or be willing to work towards one at Level 5.
• Internal/External Verification Knowledge (Desirable): Familiarity with quality assurance processes in education and training.
• Apprentice-Centric Approach: A genuine commitment to placing the apprentice at the heart of your work.

This role offers a rewarding career path for individuals who are passionate about technical education, committed to nurturing talent, and eager to contribute to a vital sector of the UK economy. By joining the University of Derby, you will become part of an institution dedicated to excellence, innovation, and making a positive impact on lives and communities.