Business Apprentice Review

As part of the MBDA Apprenticeship, we have the opportunity to move around several departments before choosing our final job department at the end of the programme. Because of the nature of the company, I can not go into detail of what projects and responsibilities we are given in terms of a job role.

We complete an NVQ and work towards a degree in Business Studies. In our placements, we are also provided with training courses, both internal and externally. We also travel to Wales for a week on a course to develop skills. As well as this, I have developed generic skills such as team work, confidence etc.

I find the programme challenging, as working and attending University is difficult, however it's very rewarding, motivating and enjoyable.

MBDA take care of their apprentices and I always feel we are valued. Even our Managing Director took the time out to meet all of us, and expressed his personal feelings about our value. In our end of placement reviews, managers always express their appreciation of working with us.

The programme started off with a morning induction and we were then taken to meet our placement managers. We then also had a week called 'Interaction' where all graduates and apprentices came together to develop skills. We also have 'buddies' allocated to us when we start, who are usually an older apprentice/graduate, so always ensure we know what we are doing. There is always constant support if we need it from our HR team, and we are also allocated a contact at University to help us in our time there.

Our training provider always want to ensure we are happy and do our best. There is always support there if we need it and problems are dealt with promptly if there is one.

We are given support, however are also left to be independent. We aren't checked up on all the time, but do have 'catch up' time with our HR team occasionally. We are also e-mailed and kept in the loop, and are provided with updates. In terms of support, our HR team are fantastic at dealing with issues. There really want us to do well, and do everything in their power to ensure this.

We do get pay rises and bonus' every year, and the salary is competitive, however I believe that the starting salary should be slightly higher. We put so much effort into the apprenticeship, both at work and at University, and I feel that getting into this routine straight from school/college can be difficult. Therefore, a better salary would ensure motivation continues.

Apprentices always have the opportunity to travel to educational events, go into schools, attend company Charity events and non-charity events. There is also a sport and social club on site, as well as discounts for the local cinema and theatre.

Yes

MBDA is a fantastic company who really invest in all of their employees; both young and old. You feel right at home instantly and can always guarantee that you are in a happy environment. MBDA also has flexi-time, making it a lot easier to have a healthy work/life balance.

You must have done extra-curricular activities that demonstrate team work and commitment. Our company values are really important, so if you can demonstrate that you fulfil these that would leave a really good impression. Information on these can be found on our website.