- Duration:15 months + 3 months for EPA
- Course Code:ST0832
- FT / PT:Full Time
Telecoms Field Operative Apprenticeship: The role to build, provide or repair telecom services for commercial or residential customers on the UK’s National Telecom Access Network. (TFO)
The Training Programme: At the beginning of your apprenticeship, you will be assessed for any prior learning and have a tailored ILP – Individual Learning Plan created to suit you and your organisation’s needs.
We offer the option of an initial four-week block of training at DTN where you will experience a blended method of classroom-based theory training and invaluable experience attaining Industry recognised accreditations at our state-of-the-art training centre, which incorporates pole fields, internal workshop with a simulated full fibre build Network, plus a civils and construction area. After which you will return to the workplace to put into practice your new skills and continue with your on-the-job and Off-The-Job Training. However, we are also aware that this programme may not suit everyone’s needs and are able to tailor the apprenticeship by splitting this block week into smaller chunks if required.
Off-The-Job-Training (OTJT): Our structured programme will take you through the skills, knowledges and behaviours needed to complete your apprenticeship. Specialist training at DTN, combined with work-based OTJ training, will total 20% of your apprenticeships’ overall contracted hours, and will need evidencing on the OneFile platform for your E-portfolio system as part of your commitment.
Regular contact and Quarterly Progress Reviews: You will be allocated a dedicated personal tutor who will keep in regular contact offering support and advice, in addition to formal 3 monthly progress reviews. These quarterly reviews involving the apprentice, the tutor and the employer will ascertain which KSB’s you have become competent at and affirm the next stage of your training. You are working towards a professional qualification which will require evidence of training to build a portfolio which will support your discussion for your End Point Assessment. This evidence will come from a combination of OTJT, coursework, observations, and witness statements from your expert trainers.
End Point Assessment: On attainment of the KSB’s and completion of the programme, the apprentice will enter Gateway and confirm their competency through the EPA, consisting of a Professional Discussion, Multiple Choice Knowledge Test (only for TFO) and a Practical Demonstration.
Incentive payments: £1000 for employers of apprentices who are aged 18 or under at the start of their programme. £500 paid at month 3 and £500 upon completion.
Entry Requirements: the apprentice must be employed and work at least 30 hours per week.
Duration: 15 Months for the level 2 TFO (plus up to 3 Months for EPA).
Pre-requisites for TFO: Must hold a Level 1 in both Maths and English.
How well are we doing?
73.3% of our apprentices have achieved a
Distinction grade!
Don’t just take our word for it, see what our current and former apprentices have to say……
Jack (age 19 currently undertaking a TFO level 2 Apprenticeship) ‘Everyone at DTN are very nice and they are always willing to help if you don’t understand anything or if you need a bit of extra guidance’.
Nathan (aged 28, achieved a Distinction for TFO standard in August 2023) ‘The training I had at DTN for the Openreach One Fibre Network build was essential to my role in the network, I was also accredited with medium risk confined spaces which was an interesting course. I’m glad I undertook an apprenticeship and now I have a qualification to show for it!’
Robyn (age 25, TFO) ‘Starting my apprenticeship at DTN has been one of the best choices I have made. My confidence has grown massively, and I have learnt a lot. This has made me feel confident and safe working out in the field. The staff are all very supportive and have made me feel welcome from the start. The courses at DTN and the training facilities are also great! I Can’t thank Carla enough for the support and encouragement she has given me over the last 4 months.
Ken (aged 30 achieved a Distinction for level 2 TFO) ‘I decided to change career during the pandemic, I realised how important the telecommunications network was and wanted to become a part of the community who build and maintain it. My apprenticeship played an essential part in getting me a job I wanted’.
Joseph age 17, currently undertaking a level 2 TFO apprenticeship. ‘Since I started the Telecoms Field Operative Apprenticeship, I’ve gained so much confidence. Training at DTN for my accreditations has given me the opportunity to progress in the workplace, and I’m earning a decent wage, I couldn’t be happier’.
Dawood (age 30 achieved a Distinction for level 2 TFO) ‘I was surprised to find out that you can become an apprentice at any age. I enjoyed my training at DTN both on the overhead and underground network, skills needed to keep me mega busy at work!’