Rating

6.9/10
  • 1. Please give an overview of your role and what this involves on a day-to-day basis:
  • 6 month placement rotations - a lot of variation in work. In office monday tuesday thursday working with a team, currently in a security based role. Involves researching and implementing security controls to secure a company project network.

    8/10

  • 2. Have you learnt any new skills or developed existing skills?
  • Certainly - system testing, rolling out updates, jira administration, software defined radios, cis lockdowns, data analytics, general security practises.

    8/10

  • 3. To what extent do you enjoy your programme?
  • Office based project placements are typically good, very dependant on the manager and team you end up working with. University work is very sub-par and unengaging, learning mostly self-taught when doing assignment work.

    7/10

  • 4. How well organised/structured is your programme?
  • Initially we were the 'guinea pigs' being the first year in the business to be on the scheme, definite teething issues. It has since improved with managers understanding more how to support apprentices and give appropriate work. The 'apprenticeship lead' at our site seems to change year on year as often people to not have a lot of time outside their usual work activities to manage a growing cohort.

    6/10

  • 5. How much support do you receive from your employer?
  • Support from the early careers side is good, can raise issues where necessary, and action is evidently taken.

    7/10

  • 6. How much support do you receive from your training provider when working towards your qualifications?
  • Cranfield lectures are often unengaging, not a lot learnt. Our skills coach at MK:U is amazing and makes a world of difference while working towards our gateway and EPA. Support is there if requested.

    7/10

  • 7. How well do you feel that your qualification (through your training provider) helps you to perform better in your role?
  • There isn't much at all that I have been taught during university lectures that has crossed over to helping me in the workplace. All my workplace skills are learnt during work.

    3/10

  • 8. Are there extra-curricular activities to get involved in at your work? (For example, any social activities, sports teams, or even professional networking events.)
  • Yes, socials, running clubs, networking events and conferences are all available, but of course not mandatory. Company will often cover expenses for trips, etc.

    9/10

  • 9a. Would you recommend BAE Systems to a friend?
  • Yes


  • 9b. Why?
  • Reliable sector, good salary for our cohort, majority of staff are friendly and willing to teach/support your learning. One of the best UK employers.


  • 10. What tips or advice would you give to others applying to BAE Systems?
  • Focus typically on STEM based qualifications. Make sure you answer any interview questions using the STAR method, don't stray far from the questions. Take your time. Good luck.


Details

Degree Apprenticeship

Computer Systems Engineering, Cyber Security

Christchurch, Dorset

March 2025


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