AgustaWestland at Yeovil had recently closed entries to their apprenticeship for the ones starting in September (first year is NVQ engineering so therefore start in Sept)
I'd like to start Glam Uni aircraft maintenance degree in cooperation with ICAT/Barry College in 2009 and AWs 'gap year' one year work experience sounds good. I'll see if and when I start the course.
I'm embarking on helo pilot career with interest in maintenance as well as a 'backup' career at least. I don't want rat race job and want to be involved with aviation even if I had to lose medical.
Also, if I'm doing some crappy roster somewhere far away, I could as well make use of the free time doing some maintenance.
But that's just wild imagination at the mo.
I suspect you might have to do fixed wing turbine course/degree and specialise in helicopters after that. Engines ain't that much different.
Anyway, check out AW's UK website for the apprenticeships, what's in and wait till next year, and have a look at 'engineers' subsection of PPRUNE. This is mostly for and about pilots and flying.
Eurocopter do some apprenticeships or rather, work experience for folks with part 66 exams. Since you ain't got anything, probably just some mechanic experience, AW's apprenticeship is by far best shot.
I tried to find out more info on this issue, but all companies want experienced, fully licensed A&Ps, part 66 mechs etc..