Placement Year Review at NATS

The Role

Role Description

My placement was in the Operational Analysis Department within NATS. The main areas in which the department undertakes analyses are strategic analysis, safety, airspace capacity, runway capacity and environment. To work in OA you must be studying a suitable numerate or analytical degree. The work can consist of analytical report writing, programming and using various computer tools such as excel. There are lots of opportunities to give presentations, and work with members of other departments, or external customers.

1. To what extent did you enjoy your work placement or internship?

★★★★★★★★★☆

Rated 9/10

Really interesting work - definitely something I want to do after University!

2. To what extent did you feel valued by your colleagues?

★★★★★★★★★☆

Rated 9/10

Everyone makes you feel really welcome, and like part of the team, rather than an intern.

3. To what extent were you given support and guidance by management/your supervisor(s)?

★★★★★★★★★☆

Rated 9/10

We have monthly one to ones, to talk about how we are doing, and also review meetings with our line managers to talk about progress.

4. How busy were you on a daily basis?

★★★★★★★☆☆☆

Rated 7/10

Theres always a lot to do, but there is support if you feel it is too much

5. How much responsibility were you given during your placement?

★★★★★★★☆☆☆

Rated 7/10

Lots! As said before, they treat you like one of the team, so you get similar responsibility as if you were a permanent member of staff

6. To what extent did/will the skills you developed, and training you received, assist you in your degree studies and beyond?

★★★★★★★★☆☆

Rated 8/10

I've learned two new programming languages - python and VBA, and a lot about analytical report writing. Also I'm getting a lot of experience in giving presentations.

The Organisation

7. What was the general atmosphere in your office?

★★★★★★★★☆☆

Rated 8/10

Really friendly, always someone bringing in cake.

8. How well organised was the overall work placement or internship set up?

★★★★★★★★☆☆

Rated 8/10

Your supervisor makes sure you have enough work, and that it is all going well.

9. In terms of personal training and development, to what extent did the company or firm invest in you?

★★★★★★★★☆☆

Rated 8/10

Went on an Air Traffic Control Familiarisation Course, also got to go visit Heathrow Tower

10. What were the perks on your work placement?

★★★★★★★★★☆

Rated 9/10

• Subsidised Canteen
• Sports and Social Club
• Subsidised/Company Gym
• Company Parties/Events
• Above 25 days holiday

11. How appealing are future employment prospects within the organisation?

★★★★★☆☆☆☆☆

Rated 5/10

Don't know

Other Information

12. Was there a good social scene amongst any fellow placement students/colleagues?

★★★★★★★★☆☆

Rated 8/10

Various nights out organised, halloween party, christmas party...

13. What was the cost of living and socialising in the area you worked in?

★★★★★☆☆☆☆☆

Rated 5/10

Rent is around £250 - £400 depending on how nice a flat you want, not very much to do in Whiteley though!

14. What was the Nightlife like in the area you worked?

★★☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆

Rated 2/10

Only a few pubs, no clubs.

15. Were there many opportunities to get involved in activities outside of work?

★★★★★★★☆☆☆

Rated 7/10

Various sports and social clubs, meetups outside of work.

In addition to these questions, is there any extra information you would like to leave about your experiences on your work placement that other students may be interested in?

It's good to have an interest in aviation.

Review 10/10 for NATS

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