Business Apprentice Review

Currently I'm in the Raw Materials team which means on a day to day basis I check against invoices, raise and amend purchase orders and partake in purchasing activities. My daily interactions consist of my team members and one member from one of our metal suppliers.

I've learnt new skills which allow me to use storage systems within BAE and a number of processes. I also feel like I have developed on a personal level as I feel like I've gained organisational skills, prioritizing skills and time management. During my time so far I've undertaken many training courses such as BCM, fire awareness etc.

Currently, I'm not enjoying my apprenticeship program. I feel although BAE Systems has a much higher expectation that what it is delivering. For example, during my time I have only ever risen two purchase orders and I haven't had a vast variety of experiences due to the lack of work given to me from the placements I've been set in. Although saying this, I do feel like BAE Systems is a great company to work for as all employees are valued.

At BAE Systems I do feel valued, I feel like all my managers so far appreciate that I am here to help, however I don't feel like my presence is a necessity in order for them to efficiently work. Becoming involved with other things in the business also makes me feel like a valued employee.

My induction and training for the programme was excellent. I felt like I was coming into the BAE Systems community with a good knowledge on how to behave in the business and I knew that I'd learn my day to day job whilst in placements. The support we receive from everyone across the business (assessors, occupational health, managers etc.) is extremely important and I do feel although BAE Systems offer plenty of support that is useful.

My assessor offers a sufficient amount of support to all the apprentices. I feel like she is approachable and I could go to her if I had any issues. She is more than happy to help with problems and will guide you in the right direction. She offers all the support she can.

The HR team have personally offered me a lot of support whilst being part of BAE Systems. When I have a problem I feel although I could go to the HR function and be welcomed to talking about any problems or issues and they would be happy to help/support.

Although our salary for an apprentice is excellent, I do feel although those who live further away than the majority should be considered for more travel cost. For example, the location of BAE Systems is mainly Preston based, I live 15 miles from my current location which means I have to travel 15 miles in the morning and evening just to get to and from work. This costs my petrol approximately £60 a week and we only receive £2 a day for petrol. Other costs are covered by my great wage, however travel costs do cut my salary by a significant amount.

I've been lucky enough to represent BAE Systems in a number of events such as STEM Ambassador activities, completion awards and quiz nights. Having the opportunity to attend these proves that there is plenty of opportunity outside of work.

No

For this question I was on the fence. For anybody above 18 and who had achieved A levels in the past I would recommend BAE Systems to them as they have more opportunity to get the best out of BAE Systems. I came straight from school, which means the only qualifications I have are my GCSE's - as I am not enjoying my time here I have been looking at other options for myself, however they're very limited due to my limited qualifications. Another reason why I wouldn't recommend BAE Systems is because for young people, which apprenticeships are usually aimed for, you don't have much free time to spend with you family, friends or time to 'charge your batteries', I feel like BAE Systems doesn't consider those who have just come straight from school in this aspect. I also feel like BAE Systems advertise their apprenticeships as a role where you will be a valued member of a team that will have day to day duties and responsibilities, so far in year of my apprenticeship I haven't had these opportunities and I am in my third placement. I feel like I would've benefited much more from going to college as BAE Systems hasn't given me the opportunities I was promised.

For those applying to BAE Systems I'd definitely say that if you aren't successful the first time, try again repeatedly. I'd also tell them not to panic during interviews, as long a you have knowledge on the company and products and can bring something new/bold to BAE Systems then you will be a valuable applicant. Before joining BAE Systems I would like to have been told about the under 18 restrictions and the fact that many placements can be 'boring'.