Recently, our Year 12 students had the opportunity to visit Alexander Batteries, a local company known for its cutting-edge technology and commitment to innovation in the field of energy storage. The primary objective of the trip was to expose students to potential apprenticeship opportunities and to provide a glimpse into the exciting world of technology and engineering.

Upon arrival, students were greeted by knowledgeable and enthusiastic professionals who spoke about the company. Students were interested to hear that none of the senior management team have a degree! They have all worked their way into those positions through industry experience and on-the-job training opportunities.  

One of the highlights of the trip was the interactive session with current apprentices at Alexander Batteries. These young professionals shared their personal journeys, detailing how the apprenticeship program had provided them with practical skills and invaluable industry knowledge. The apprentices spoke passionately about the training they received and the support that they received from the company.

They were then given a tour of the production floor, where students observed the assembly line in action. Another apprentice working in quality control was happy to share the benefits of working at Alexander Batteries and of the apprenticeship programme. The meticulous attention to detail and the precision required in manufacturing batteries left a lasting impression on the students. It was a hands-on experience that allowed them to appreciate the complexity of the production process and the significance of quality control in ensuring reliable products.

The visit concluded with an assessment day skills session. Alexander Batteries does not interview candidates but invites them onto site for a day to take part in team and individual activities. Students enjoyed taking part in some of these challenges, including building a structure out of spaghetti and marshmallows. 

The combination of hands-on exploration, insightful discussions with apprentices, and exposure to cutting-edge technology left a lasting impact, sparking interest and curiosity about potential career paths. As we strive to prepare our students for the future, such trips play a crucial role in bridging the gap between classroom learning and real-world applications, empowering the next generation to make informed decisions about their career aspirations.