Technical Apprentice Review

As a technical apprentice i have four month placements where i work in different departments. This gives me the chance to see what happens in different places on site. My daily tasks can range from creating excel sheets, power-points, checking queries about the aircraft and making change requests to correct incorrect documentation. The kind of jobs vary greatly depending on the placement, so the work is very varied. During these placements i am given responsibility to carry out real work that helps with the support of the aircraft.

Through my apprenticeship i have already gained a BTEC in engineering and am currently working towards my HNC. While at work i have progressed my skills in all aspects, this includes my abilities using software such as excel and company specific software. Throughout the apprentice i have taken part in extra learning activities including training in manual handling, fire awareness, and inclusion and diversity. These courses have progressed my skills in knowing what is acceptable within the workplace and knowing what to do in emergencies.

Having the opportunity to work while progressing my learning is something i enjoy. Throughout each placement so far i have always felt the team are very encouraging and helpful which makes working for BAE Systems far more enjoyable. While not every job is as interesting as others i am never given a pointless job with no use to the company just to keep me occupied. Every job has a need which makes me feel like im helping. These factors all contribute to why i enjoy working here and why it meets my expectations of what i wanted to find working here.

I feel very valued by BAE Systems, they have continued to put me through qualifications and have expressed the interest in carrying on to do my HND and Degree after finishing my HNC. While at work itself i feel valued due to the responsibility i am given where it is doing an important job that is used Aero India or one that is viewed by the site director. If i was not valued i would not be given these opportunities. After completing work to a good standard the team leader often is very thankful of the job and gives the recognition that comes with doing the job. As well as this i am always given the chances to further develop my skills by going on courses. I am always valued as a member of the team i am with.

The apprenticeship is very well structured. The first year was based at the training centre in Preston where the Brough apprentices where mixed with the Warton apprentices. There was induction for the first few days and ice breakers. This first year was then broken down into different sections, Fitting, CAD, Machining, Electrical. The next step was specialisation from which i became a technical apprentice. After completing this first year i came back to Brough where there was a short rotation of a couple of days in most departments to get an over view of what happens on site, this then lead into four month placements. I feel this structure works very well as it helps develop many different skills while gaining knowledge of the business and site. The level of support is very good as well and if i have any issues there is always someone to go to.

While at college there is a good level of support, there are regular reviews to check if there any improvements that could be made and to make sure i feel i am being given enough support. If i have any problems with anything there is always someone to talk to. If i am having issues with lessons all the tutors are very helpful and are more then whiling to go through things twice if i am struggling.

While at work i am regularly visited by the apprentice supervisor to check how things are going and whether i need anything. As well as this i can always speak to any of my colleagues if i have any issues. There is also HR that i can speak to if there are any problems. I feel the level of support is really good and it encourages a good work environment were i am not afraid to ask for help or advice. Every three months there is review which covers my progress and if i am on target and what i need to do to keep progressing. These reviews also cover whether i feel i am being included and to ensure i am being safeguarded, these provide a great level of support.

I feel the salary i am given more then meets my current cost and has allowed me to better myself from it. It has allowed me to start saving up for buying a house in the future while also allowing to me meet all my current outgoings. The salary allows me to partake in activities i would previously not have been able to afford and also allows me to carry on previous hobbies as well as picking up new ones. These activities allow me to come to work refreshed and ready to work hard.

Throughout the year there are a variety of different events put on by BAE Systems, Last year there was a garden party and the centenary event as well as the Christmas ball. Within each department there are various activities that get arranged for example go-karting and paintball. There has also been apprentice bowling. Outside of work partake in many different activities ranging from playing guitar, going rock-climbing, and mountain biking. Working at BAE Systems has given me the opportunity to diversify what i do at home due to pay and encouragement from colleagues.

Yes

I would recommend BAE Systems for many different reasons, these include the great level of training you receive and the potential to get many qualifications if you are willing to put the work in. The people you work with are very helpful and are always willing to share information that can help you progress as an apprentice. You are also never made to feel like an apprentice and are valued as a member of the team you are working with. I would also recommend BAE Systems to a friend due to the pay and the flexible working times. Working for BAE Systems also opens up the potential to travel and work in many different countries.

The application process consists of a written application online. For this stage i would give the advice of learn about the company and use facts and figures in the application form. This shows an actual interest for BAE Systems. If this stage is passed there are online tests. I would recommend some quick revision on basic maths and to go over the practices questions until you are satisfied you understand the format. If this stage is passed then there is an interview which a project is needed and a dexterity test. For the interview the best advice is preparation, learn about the company, what they do and are hoping to do and use it in answers. Also learn model answers for common interview questions. For your project make sure you know all about it and are enthusiastic about it. Another thing is to go dressed smart and have enthusiasm. The dexterity test is not something that can really be prepared for as it changes every year.