At a Glance
- Tasks: Join us as a Davenport Setter and master precision machinery in a dynamic workshop.
- Company: Tappex has over 60 years of experience in manufacturing threaded inserts for diverse industries.
- Benefits: Enjoy fully paid training, hands-on experience, and potential career progression opportunities.
- Other info: Flexible working hours and a supportive environment await you!
- Why this job: This apprenticeship offers real-world skills, teamwork, and a chance to impact the manufacturing sector.
- Qualifications: 5 GCSEs at grades 9-4, including maths and English; science preferred.
July 2, 2025
Brief Description
Looking to get hands‑on in the world of manufacturing? Join our team as a Davenport Setter and learn how to set up and run precision machinery that keeps production moving. You’ll gain real experience working with tools, reading engineering drawings, and supporting new team members — all in a busy, supportive workshop environment.
Application Deadline Date: 31/07/2025
Start Date: 17/09/2025
Positions Available: 2
Qualifications Required
5 GCSEs at 9 – 4 / A* – C (5 or above preferred), must include maths, English language, and ideally Science, or equivalent related qualification.
Personal Qualities
- Dependable in both attendance and work ethic.
- Eager to develop skills and expand knowledge of a Davenport Machine Setter.
- Open to feedback and proactive in seeking out learning opportunities.
- Uses initiative to find solutions efficiently and safely.
- Able to switch between different tasks and adapt to changing priorities.
- Works well under pressure, especially during breakdowns or urgent repairs.
- Communicates well with colleagues and works collaboratively.
- Supports team objectives and contributes positively to group tasks.
- Understands the importance of safety in a manufacturing environment.
Skills Required
- A willingness to learn and a proactive approach.
- Strong problem‑solving skills and attention to detail.
- An interest in engineering and manufacturing.
- Good communication skills and the ability to work as part of a team.
Training to be Provided
Together with invaluable commercial and practical experience, you’ll gain several academic and vocational qualifications throughout your time with us and Make UK, which are fully paid for, including:
- Advanced Manufacturing Engineering Practical Foundation Training – in year 1, in 6 week blocks to include 4 weeks at Make UK and 2 weeks in company
- Advanced Manufacturing Engineering Workplace Competence Training – in years 2 to 4 in company
- Level 3 BTEC Diploma in Advanced Manufacturing Engineering Development Knowledge – in Years 1, 2 & 3 on block release to Make UK
- In house training in line with your requirements.
- Further qualifications deemed necessary by your employer
On completion of your studies and End Point Assessment (EPA), you will achieve your full apprenticeship certification that will prove competence as a Level 3 Engineering Technician.
Future Prospects
Future Prospects of a Davenport Machine SetterBecoming a Davenport Machine Setter is an excellent starting point for a long‑term career in precision engineering and manufacturing. With experience, skill development, and the right attitude, there are several clear progression routes within a company like Tappex:
- Senior Machine Setter
- Take on responsibility for more complex changeovers and troubleshooting.
- Support junior setters and operators with training and mentoring.
- Help improve machine utilisation and reduce downtime.
- Production Supervisor / Team Leader
- Step into a leadership role, managing a team of setters and operators.
- Oversee daily machine shop operations, shift planning, and performance metrics.
- Act as a key link between production and engineering.
Department: Engineering and Manufacturing Technologies
Hours: Mon - Thur 8am to 4.30pm and Fri 8am to 2pm
Level 3 Machining Technician Apprenticeship in Stratford-upon-Avon employer: Tappex
At Tappex, we pride ourselves on being an excellent employer, offering a supportive workshop environment where apprentices can thrive. With a strong focus on employee growth, we provide comprehensive training and qualifications, ensuring that our team members are well-equipped for their future careers in precision engineering. Located in the picturesque Stratford-upon-Avon, our company fosters a collaborative culture that values initiative and teamwork, making it an ideal place for those eager to develop their skills and contribute to meaningful projects.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Level 3 Machining Technician Apprenticeship in Stratford-upon-Avon
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the specific machinery and tools used in precision engineering. Understanding how a Davenport machine operates will not only impress us but also show your genuine interest in the role.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with current or former apprentices in similar roles. They can provide valuable insights into the apprenticeship experience and may even offer tips on how to stand out during the selection process.
✨Tip Number 3
Demonstrate your problem-solving skills by preparing examples of how you've tackled challenges in previous experiences. This could be from school projects, part-time jobs, or even personal hobbies related to engineering.
✨Tip Number 4
Showcase your teamwork abilities by discussing any group projects or collaborative efforts you've been involved in. Highlighting your communication skills and adaptability will resonate well with our team-oriented environment.
We think you need these skills to ace Level 3 Machining Technician Apprenticeship in Stratford-upon-Avon
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience and skills that align with the Level 3 Machining Technician Apprenticeship. Emphasise any hands-on experience, particularly in engineering or manufacturing, and include your GCSE results, especially in maths and English.
Craft a Compelling Cover Message:In your cover message, express your enthusiasm for the apprenticeship and explain why you are a good fit. Mention your eagerness to learn and develop skills as a Davenport Machine Setter, and how your personal qualities align with the company's values.
Showcase Your Problem-Solving Skills:In both your CV and cover message, provide examples of how you've demonstrated strong problem-solving skills and attention to detail in previous experiences. This could be from school projects, part-time jobs, or any relevant activities.
Highlight Teamwork and Communication:Since the role requires good communication and teamwork, include specific instances where you've successfully worked as part of a team. This could be in school, sports, or community projects, showcasing your ability to collaborate and support others.
How to prepare for a job interview at Tappex
✨Show Your Enthusiasm for Engineering
Make sure to express your genuine interest in engineering and manufacturing during the interview. Talk about any relevant projects or experiences that sparked your passion for this field, as it will demonstrate your eagerness to learn and grow.
✨Highlight Your Problem-Solving Skills
Prepare examples of how you've tackled challenges in the past, especially in a team setting. Discuss specific situations where you used your initiative to find solutions, as this aligns with the qualities the company is looking for.
✨Emphasise Teamwork and Communication
Since the role involves working collaboratively, be ready to discuss your experiences working in teams. Share instances where you effectively communicated with colleagues and contributed positively to group tasks, showcasing your ability to support team objectives.
✨Demonstrate Adaptability
Be prepared to talk about times when you had to switch between different tasks or adapt to changing priorities. This will show that you can handle the pressures of a busy workshop environment, which is crucial for the role of a Davenport Setter.
