Project Management Apprentice Review

Day-to-day I undertake various types of project work in one of five annual placements that we complete throughout the scheme. I get to liaise with various colleagues from fellow apprentices right through to senior executives, building my network for the future. I complete this while balancing the demands of studying.

Throughout the scheme so far I've managed to develop some existing skills from previous professional and educational experiences as well as learning new knowledge, skills and behaviours in line with those required to be a successful project manager.

I thoroughly enjoy the apprenticeship programme with BAE Systems, every week really is different! Whether it's travelling to a new place of work, meeting new colleagues and clients or even having the opportunity to undertake additional stretch projects and workshops outside of my normal placement, the business really supports me to make the most out of every opportunity.

The structure of the programme is well organised and well practiced. Expectations and standards are clearly demonstrated and the wider business is really open to apprentices and understands the demands of being on a programme.

Every apprentice gets lots of dedicated support from a personal skills coach who is there to support you with both work and studies.

We study with the University once a week during term time and work our way through a number of the University modules. The teaching and support can be mixed depending on the module and member of faculty staff you interact with.

The APM PMQ provides a lot of fundamental knowledge that is required to be a successful project manager and therefore this qualification, which is delivered by BAE, is really useful. Overall the wider degree has some useful aspects however the content could be tailored slightly better.

There are a number of activities you can get involved with whether it's informal sports teams, employee resource groups or specific networking events organised by the local apprentice council. There's always so many activities to get involved in.

Yes

I would recommend BAE System's apprenticeships to anyone looking to kickstart their career or change into a different profession. The support is completely unparalleled while you are on the scheme and the business is so well aligned to supporting the learning of apprentices. You truly feel valued and everyone recognises the importance of investing in quality training to safeguard the future talent of the business.

I would advise prospective candidates to really research the scheme they're applying for and ensure they have clear inspiration for choosing to apply. With so many schemes on offer it's important to know why you're choosing to pursue a particular pathway and the business will want to know why you are too. I'd also suggest completing research into BAE Systems in general as well as the specific business unit you're applying for (e.g. Air) so that you can articulate why you are the right fit for the business and how the business aligns with you personally.