Apprenticeship glossary

CNC machining

What does CNC machining mean?

Cutting metal or other materials with computer-controlled machines. Machinist apprentices, like those in the Mercedes F1 aero machine shop, learn to program and run them.

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Employer profile Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS F1 Team apprenticeships The Formula 1 team based in Brackley, Northamptonshire. It takes on apprentices every year for Level 3 apprenticeships of up to 42 months and Level 4 IT apprenticeships of up to 19 months, and asks for five GCSEs at grade 5.
Apprentice
Someone doing an apprenticeship: an employee who is paid to work and train towards a recognised qualification at the same time.
Cohort
A group of apprentices who start at the same time, often called an intake. Many employers run one big cohort a year, often starting in September.
Commissioning (TV)
Choosing and paying for TV programmes made by production companies. Channel 4's apprentices can work in commissioning.
Common Travel Area
An arrangement between the UK and Ireland. It means Republic of Ireland nationals are eligible for Higher Level Apprenticeships in Northern Ireland, if they meet the other rules.
Commute
Your journey to and from work, and to your college or training provider. Check it's realistic before you apply, especially for factory or site-based roles.
Competency question
An interview or application question asking for an example of something you've done, like 'Tell me about a time you worked in a team'. The STAR method helps you answer.

Definitions are our own plain-English summaries. Where we give figures, they come from the official sources listed on the linked guide or profile. Rules can change, so check the official source before you make decisions.