Apprentice Designer (Electrical) Review

As an apprentice electrical designer on submarines, day-to-day activities include editing drawings, schematics, diagrams. Interactions with other designers and engineers are common place, in order to clarify or acquire information. Sometimes I will be given a particular system or section that I will be responsible for and, with some guidance from my peers, will work through drawing sets making modifications laid out in ECRs.

During my 2nd year as an apprentice, I have learnt skills in a number of different CAD programs. Training is given out at the start of each placement, to help prepare for the workload given out during the placement. Knowledge of the processes involved in day-to-day work is gained through on the job learning, with help from peers.

Placements can vary greatly in terms of the workload, the teams you work with, expectations and enjoyment. My first placement involved a lot of work, as I was busy during the whole placement. But the second placement did not involve as much workload, making for a lot of spare time without much to do. This time was used to progress with NVQ qualifications and learning from other team members.

Definitely feel valued at BAE Systems, as they place a great emphasis on the importance of apprentices. There is frequent correspondence, through email and meetings. There are awards such as Apprentice of the Month, which help to recognise good work and achievements of apprentices and regular reviews to catch up on progress made within the company and with each team.

The apprenticeship structure is laid out at the start of the apprenticeship, so it is clear how the programme will develop. Each apprentice is given 5 month placements, which then rotate so experience is gained from a number of different teams. College is attended on day release once a week to complete the ONC qualification.

Support from the college is good, with help available with studies including tutoring from peers if need be. There is a BAE representative in the college to help to deal with any issues, which may involve the employer.

Regular reviews take place and there is regular contact between training/capability teams. Problems can be aired at the apprentice council meetings and it is felt that any problems would be dealt with quickly.

As an older apprentice and a home owner, the first 18 months have been a struggle. Living, travel and day to day costs had to be subsidised through lending but as the pay increases during the apprenticeship this should become less of an issue.

There are regular company events organised, such as football and gold tournaments in the summer. Teams regularly organise social meetings outside of work, and there are many leisure/sports clubs locally. Outside of work I play football regularly, and the town is located close to the Lake District.

Yes

BAE Systems is an internationally recognised engineering company, with an excellent reputation for producing some of the most advanced weapons systems in the world. They have many benefits including pension and shares schemes, paid holidays and sick pay. Support is always available whether it is for training for your role or even support for any personal health issues.

Gain as much knowledge about the company as possible, including the company's vision and current contracts. Learn as much as possible about the role being applied for. Speak to employees if possible and check the BAE systems website for information.