Business Apprentice Review

I am a first year business apprentice in the commercial function. In my current placement my role is to run a work package, which is buying parts that are being discontinued.This involves me going to various meetings around the business and also being in contact with the customer on a day to day basis.

I have developed lots of new skills since starting my apprenticeship. I have had NVQ work to complete and have recently started a Btec, doing these course has developed my English skills and also developed my communication as the Btec involves a lot of group work and presenting to the rest of the class. I have had internal training to learn me about the company and certain policies and procedures that have also given me an insight into the company on a larger scale. I have really developed in terms of confidence at work, and taking on big tasks that at first I found to be a little daunting. I have also developed skills using the internal systems and navigating my way round the intranet.

I am thoroughly enjoying my apprenticeship here at BAE Systems. I am really enjoying my current placement, I feel like I have a good workload and I work in a really good team. The company is a fantastic company and has loads of benefits. I have learnt so much already and there is so much more to learn. There is also so many opportunities to learn and develop yourself academically and in the business. I am really enjoying it!

In my current placement I feel very valued as I am in charge of one of the work packages so all work under that is my responsibility. I also get lots of encouragement and support from my manager and he is always there to help if I ever require it!

I feel as though the scheme is very well organised. We had a 2 week induction course before being let into the business when we started our first placement. We were also allocated a buddy who is there to offer help and support and answer any questions we may have. We are also given the option to attend regular training sessions around the business and all our college days are arranged in advance so we can plan round them.

I receive a lot of support from my assessor at the training centre. She provides help and support whenever I need it and also arranged regular NVQ sessions were we can review my work and also chat about any questions I may have.

Throughout my last 2 placements I have received a lot of support from my managers and they are always there to offer me help and support with my work and also if I need any guidance about my apprenticeship. They have also enrolled me on lots of extra courses and try and get me involved in as much as they can to improve my development.

I find the salary ok, it covers my living costs and my travel costs and I am usually left with some money at the end of the month. The salary for an apprenticeship is very good and It covers all costs.

There are loads of opportunities outside work if its something you are interested in. There's the chance to get involved in the princes trust, outward bound, German Exchange and STEM activities. There's also local community events like mission Christmas with Rock FM where a group of us went and helped sort the toys and the poppy appeal. If you are interested in sport there is also the Football and Netball team.

Yes

Its a fantastic company to work for with endless career prospects. Everyone is so Supportive and encouraging and everyone wants you too do well! It is a really highly looked upon apprenticeship and you get some really good qualifications out of doing it.

My advice would be to spend a while on your application and think long and hard about the questions making sure you give the best answers and don't worry about the interview day, everyone is so nice and makes you feel at ease you just need to be yourself!