Project Management Higher Apprentice Review

I am a project management higher apprentice spending 4 months in various departments of the project management function across Submarines Placements include, planning, risk, project controls.

Yes. My communication, organisation and leadership skills have particularly improved. Also work prioritisation and self confidence.

Overall the scheme is great. Some placements aren't as useful as others but on the whole i am enjoying the scheme and feel BAE support us well.

Early Careers highly value higher apprentices. Some placement managers dont value us as much as others but on the whole we are seen as important employees for the future.

Clear placement structure and college programme is in place throughout the scheme. Some placements change last minyute and we would like some input into where we can do placements, however this is difficult due to the volume of PM higher apprentices now.

Support is there from Blackpool college when required. Due to us being from barrow and only going to college once a week it can be difficult however to one support but the tutors are always happy for us to email them.

The Early Careers support in Submarines is excellent. They help with any issues regarding placements and college training. Within placements i have found that placement managers are generally supportive.

I am very happy with the current salary. We have six month reviews where pay rises are dependant on a performance score so this gives incentive to perform well. This structure is changing so everyone receives the same yearly uplift but i will still be happy with the salary

As higher apprentices we have the opportunity to get involved in lots of STEM events and work with the local schools and community to promote BAE and education.

Yes

The higher apprentice scheme is great and is a great route to starting a career within BAE. We get visibility of a variety of things across the business that standard employees in one role wouldnt.

Consider the role that you feel will be right for you. The variety of higher apprentice schemes is great so if you are a young person with Alevels leaving college i would definitely recommend one.