Mechanical Apprentice Review

I am a mechanical apprentice, I am based at Warton whilst I complete my NVQ, my day to day activities include functional testing of flying controls and hydraulic systems and instillation of mechanical components such as rods.

All the skills that I sure to do my job are new skills that I have learnt throughout my apprenticeship such as wire locking, rigging the flying controls and nitrogen charging.

I really enjoy the apprenticeship and I'm so glad I applied, I work with a great team of people whom make the day enjoyable and the management team are helpful and understanding.

As a BAE apprentice I feel valued by the management team as they appreciate the work put in by all of the engineers as they manufacture high quality products.

The apprenticeship is a well organised efficient programme with a good induction, team building week, high quality training and a work placement. I received good support and tuition throughout the programme.

I received a great deal of support from the training providers, all the instructors explained things well and went the extra mile to help if someone was struggling.

My employer gives me a lot of support. The HR team are very helpful and friendly. the management on base are extremely easy to work for as they're helpful well organised.

The salary that we get is a very fair salary for an apprenticeship, and has opportunities to increase. I manage to cover my rent, bills, daily costs and social costs. However we don't get any sort of extra package with regards to location which could be hard on someone with a family to provide for.

There are opportunities outside of the workplace to attend air shows, and may even get discounted tickets to the events through work, such as RIAT.

Yes

BAE Systems is a good career direction with many opportunities for progression and self improvement. It's also a high regarded company to work for as it has a high reputation.

Do it. It'll be the best career decision you'll ever make and as long as you're passionate and dedicated you'll go far and hopefully enjoy yourself.