Smashing stereotypes: Jayden takes on Degree Apprenticeship at Jaguar Land Rover

Jayden Patel (OW 2024) is training to become an Automotive Engineer via the Degree Apprenticeship route at Jaguar Land Rover (JLR). This involves completing academic study at the University of Warwick towards an Applied Engineering (BSc) degree, alongside work-based learning at JLR. So far, Jayden has enjoyed completing CAD training and has worked at various JLR sites, exploring the work dynamics and logistics of JLR.  

Jayden’s current role is within the vehicle integration team, ensuring the various components of prototype vehicles fit together and utilising CAD to overcome any design issues. As he progresses through his Degree Apprenticeship, Jayden will work on the design element of JLR’s newest vehicle range.

In an interview with our Head of Careers, Miss Kailey, Jayden explained his thoughts on the degree apprenticeship route, as well as the application process. 

Why did you choose a Degree Apprenticeship over a traditional Degree?

"Going to university is a valuable step for many, but to pursue a high-earning career, it's also essential to build strong work experience and employability skills. With job markets becoming more competitive, some graduates can find it challenging to secure work immediately after completing their degree. This helped confirm my decision to pursue a degree apprenticeship, which offers the unique advantages of gaining practical experience and earning a salary throughout my studies. For me, this path provides benefits that work well compared to the traditional university route."

What made you apply for JLR? 

"Firstly, I have a keen interest in cars, and I’ve always enjoyed learning about cars as a hobby, as it opens doors to a world of knowledge and practical skills. I was also attracted to work for JLR because it has a good reputation as a company, providing high quality vehicles to the automotive industry. As a company, it also has good employee benefits, such as a good pension, an onsite doctor who not only supports with our day-to-day health, but also gives advice on nutrition for overall health and wellbeing. In addition, we have an onsite Starbucks, selling their drinks at a cheaper rate than what they do on the high street. My current go-to drink is the Caramel Frap!

Overall, I knew it would be a good company to work for as it has good employee retention. Lots of the employees I spoke to have been at JLR for over 30 years. This tells me that JLR is a company that looks after its staff, as they don’t want to leave."

What do you enjoy most on your degree apprenticeship? 

"I love that I can apply my learning from University lectures to real life scenarios straight away. That’s a great benefit of a degree apprenticeship, because you are completing academic learning alongside work-based learning.  

I also enjoy being a part of the design aspects of JLRs new cars and being able to see/interact with these cars on a daily basis before they are released to the public. 

Moving out has also been a great experience. I’m currently living in private student accommodation. It’s great to be independent and have my own space."

What was the application process for this degree apprenticeship? 

"I found the vacancy for this apprenticeship on the JLR early careers website and followed the application instructions on there. I was then invited to complete online tests on maths and decision making. Following my success on the tests, I was invited to complete an interview and give a presentation of JLRs ‘Reimagine Strategy’."

How did WGS support you to secure this incredible opportunity? 

"WGS has an abundance of apprenticeships information available to students in all year groups and I really valued this. It enabled me to fully learn about the apprenticeships route, apprenticeships, and the industries in which apprenticeships are offered. 

I attended multiple degree apprenticeships workshops hosted by my school, including their inaugural Degree Apprenticeships Information Evening which took place in November 2023. At this event, I was able to network with multiple degree apprenticeship providers, which was great for keeping up to date with the latest apprenticeship opportunities and gaining some contacts for the future."

Jayden's top tips for younger students wanting to apply for a Degree Apprenticeship:

• Firstly, tailor your CV. A lot of applicants are dismissed for submitting generic CV’s, or CV’s that are too long. 
• Conduct thorough research on the company you are applying for. This will help you to decide on whether the company is right for you. In addition, you will be asked lots of questions about the company in your interview, so it is best to be prepared. 
• Use the following websites to look for apprenticeship vacancies: 
  www.ratemyapprentice.co.uk 
  www.gov.uk/apply-apprenticeship  
• ChatGPT is also a good tool to find apprenticeships in any industry. 

We are so proud of you, Jayden! You have done exceptionally well to secure such an opportunity, which is credit to your own hard work and perseverance. The WGS community can’t wait to see what you go on to do next! 

Jayden will be representing Jaguar Land Rover at our upcoming careers fair in April 2025. Any students that want to connect with Jayden for advice can meet with him then.