At a Glance
- Tasks: Gain hands-on experience in quality engineering and inspection techniques.
- Company: Join R E Thompson, a leading aerospace engineering company with 75 years of expertise.
- Benefits: Earn £27,000 pro-rata, receive dedicated mentoring, and enjoy potential full-time career opportunities.
- Other info: Enjoy a dynamic work environment with potential for full-time employment after the internship.
- Why this job: Kickstart your career in a high-demand field with real-world experience and structured development.
- Qualifications: Recent A-Level leaver with strong attention to detail and interest in STEM subjects.
The predicted salary is between 27000 - 27000 £ per year.
Our Quality Internship offers A-Level leavers an alternative pathway into quality engineering, providing real-world experience at an AS9100-certified aerospace manufacturer. Quality professionals are always in demand, and this is your chance to start building that career. This 6-month paid programme gives you hands-on experience in inspection and quality assurance, dedicated mentoring, and genuine potential for a full-time career. £27,000 per annum (pro-rata for 6 months).
About Us: R E Thompson is a leading precision aerospace engineering company with over 75 years of experience providing complete manufacturing solutions. Operating from our advanced facilities in Hampshire, we are home to the UK’s most sophisticated automated 5-axis machine shop. Our state-of-the-art Flexible Manufacturing System enables 24/7 lights-out production, and we hold AS9100, ISO9001, ISO14001, and ISO45001 certifications. We work with prestigious clients including GE Aviation, BAE Systems, and Ontic, delivering complex precision components for the aerospace, defence, automotive, and electronics industries.
Key Responsibilities:
- Learn inspection techniques and use precision measuring equipment
- Understand AS9100 and ISO 9001 quality management systems
- Support root cause analysis and corrective action processes
- Assist with First Article Inspection Reports (FAIRs) and documentation
- Learn to interpret technical drawings and specifications
- Participate in internal audits and quality reviews
- Gain exposure to APQP, PPAP, and FMEA processes
- Understand the importance of traceability in aerospace
Programme Structure:
- Phase 1 (Months 1-3): Induction, shadowing, guided tasks, building operational understanding
- Phase 1 Review: Assessment of progress and suitability for Phase 2
- Phase 2 (Months 4-6): Greater responsibility, supporting scheduling, full team integration
- Final Assessment: Review with potential for full-time job offer
What We're Looking For:
- Recent A-Level leaver or equivalent
- Strong attention to detail
- Interest in STEM subjects
- Methodical and organised approach
- Comfortable using computers and learning new systems
What We Offer:
- Competitive salary of £27,000 per annum (pro-rata)
- Dedicated mentor from day one
- Structured development programme
- Real project experience for your CV
- On-site parking
- Potential pathway to full-time employment
How to Apply: Please apply via Indeed before the 28 August 2026 deadline. You’ll need to include your CV and a brief statement explaining why you’re interested in this internship. Please note that candidates must be eligible to work in the UK.
Quality Internship (A-Level Students) employer: R.E. Thompson & Co. Ltd
R E Thompson is an exceptional employer, offering university students a unique opportunity to gain hands-on experience in quality assurance within a leading aerospace engineering environment. With a fully paid 6-month internship, dedicated mentoring, and a structured development programme, interns can expect to grow their skills while working on real projects for prestigious clients like GE Aviation and BAE Systems. Our supportive work culture fosters continuous improvement and provides a clear pathway to full-time employment, all within our state-of-the-art facilities in Hampshire.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Quality Internship (A-Level Students)
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to friends, family, or even your teachers who might have connections in the aerospace industry. A personal recommendation can make all the difference when you're trying to land that Quality Internship.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching R E Thompson and understanding their quality management systems like AS9100 and ISO 9001. Show them you’re genuinely interested in their work and how you can contribute to their team.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice common interview questions related to quality assurance and inspection techniques. Being able to discuss these topics confidently will help you stand out as a candidate who’s ready to dive into the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining the team at R E Thompson and starting your career in quality engineering.
We think you need these skills to ace Quality Internship (A-Level Students)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Craft a Compelling CV:Your CV is your first impression, so make it count! Highlight any relevant skills or experiences, especially those related to quality assurance or engineering. Keep it clear and concise, and don’t forget to tailor it to the internship!
Write a Personal Statement:In your statement, let us know why you’re excited about this Quality Internship. Share your passion for STEM subjects and how you see this opportunity fitting into your career path. Be genuine and show us your enthusiasm!
Double-Check Your Application:Before hitting send, give your application a thorough once-over. Check for typos, grammatical errors, and ensure all required documents are included. A polished application shows attention to detail, which is key in quality engineering!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website for the best chance of success. It’s straightforward and ensures your application goes straight to us. Don’t miss out on this fantastic opportunity!
How to prepare for a job interview at R.E. Thompson & Co. Ltd
✨Know Your Quality Basics
Before the interview, brush up on key quality management concepts like AS9100 and ISO 9001. Understanding these standards will show your genuine interest in the role and help you answer questions confidently.
✨Showcase Your Attention to Detail
During the interview, highlight examples from your studies or projects where your attention to detail made a difference. This could be anything from a school project to a personal hobby that required precision.
✨Ask Smart Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions about the internship and the company. Inquire about the mentoring process or specific projects you might work on. This shows you're engaged and eager to learn more about the role.
✨Demonstrate Your STEM Interest
Be ready to discuss why you're passionate about STEM subjects. Share any relevant experiences or coursework that sparked your interest in quality engineering, as this will resonate well with the interviewers.
