Higher Apprentice Review

I am currently part of the Project Control Foundation Scheme at BAE Systems. I will complete 3 placements within different areas of the business in Project Control / Project Management. My current tasks are surrounding pulling together reporting packs for internal and external use. Involvement in monthly reviews with key stakeholders.

Internal Project Control introduction and key processes. Use of IFS data management system. Respect and Banter Session. Basic use of MS Project, Visio.

The work is very different to what I have experienced before but I enjoy the responsibility I have. The team that I am currently working in are friendly and helpful but sometimes do have the time to be able to support me. This has got better over time.

As a big company BAE Systems has a wide variety of support to all staff levels. I have a good relationship with my manager and get recognition (were due) through my current work team.

The programme is well structured clearly communicating key milestones and deadlines. There is obvious achievement throughout the scheme.

The college that run our training have good processes in place to deal with any problems. Tutors are accessible when required and have a good attitude to sorting out issues when they occur. I feel that this is helped by the college working with BAE centrally, however this can make you feel a little detached from the college.

As a big company BAE Systems has a wide variety of support to all staff levels. Sometimes placement staff do not have the time to be able to support but this has got better over time.

I feel that the salary is good for a Higher Apprenticeship with good pay and progression. However currently this will only just meet living costs (without social occasions) in Portsmouth.

BAE are involved in many events within the community. There are many onsite services such as subsidised food and a gym. There is also opportunity to get involved in the local community and promote STEM and apprenticeships to young people.

Yes

BAE Systems is a large multinational company with an endless array of opportunities.

When applying to BAE Systems make sure that you do your research surrounding what BAE do and keep to the deadlines of the application. The assessment days are demanding but being confident and making sure your opinion is heard is important. If you get in the onboarding process can be challenging as it is a big adjustment if you have not worked in a professional environment before. My best advice even though hard would be to speak up if you are having trouble.