Business Apprentice Review

I am a Business Apprentice on a 4 year course at MBDA. I rotate around different placements and departments within the company which last between 6 and 9 months each, giving me the opportunity to see a wide range of areas and functions, picking up a variety of skills. Daily tasks and activities depend on which placement I am in, however I am currently working in Information Management Procurement. In this role I am responsible for the invoicing, and raising purchase orders, as well as reviewing and drafting contracts with suppliers. I work with a range of people with different experiences which is very beneficial.

I am currently studying for a degree in Business Studies as part of my apprenticeship which provides me with many academic skills which I can apply in the workplace. I use SAP daily which I have received training for. I am also expected to make use of MS Office to complete every day tasks.

I really enjoy working at MBDA and the scheme is extremely unique.It is great to see a range of functions and increase my network. This scheme has so far met my expectations as I was aware of the quality of the scheme prior to applying. It can be challenging to balance a work life, a student life and a social life at times, however I expected this and am willing to work hard.

Generally, I feel that our manager is appreciative of the hard work we do and it is good to have regular meetings to catch up and talk through our progress. In terms on line managers, I have worked in 2 departments therefore have had 2 line managers; I have had a positive experience working with both and they are very helpful for personal development. We are able to take part in extra activities such as careers events and going into schools to talk about our apprenticeship which is a nice way to feel appreciated. Personally, I feel valued as part of this organisation however I have spoken to other apprentices who have had a more negative view, and think that some managers do not appreciate what their apprentices do and just give them the work they do not want to do.

Very organised scheme from the outset. Training can be requested but must be justified. There are mentor programmes, each apprentice has a 'buddy' who is more experienced in the company. Generally, I feel I know a lot about how the company is organised through see organisation charts.

We gain a lot of useful training support on development programmes, for example we go to Wales during year 1 and year 2 of our apprenticeship for Life Skills 1 and 2. We take part in team building exercises and practise our presentation and communication skills. generally, training providers want to provide high quality service

If we would like a mentor we are able to request one. we have mortgage advisers and HR teams are always happy to help you talk through your career. HR teams seem to want to support their employees which is good to see. MBDA also offer counselling to employees which is very unique and rare

I live at home with my parents however do pay rent, and my salary covers this quite well. generally I am able to save at the same time as having a social life and financing holidays etc. There is also a great bonus scheme.

There are health and social clubs you can join and take part in sports and other activities. When i am not working, i spent a lot of time with my friends and family however a lot of the time i have to catch up on my university assignments and reading.

Yes

Great company to work with, there is vision for career progression. Managers are supportive and there are mentoring programmes to guide you through your career. The apprenticeship schemes are very good and you get the opportunity to improve knowledge and enhance skills in a range of areas, and the same time as studying towards a degree.

The application process is quite tough. you will need to demonstrate team working skills in a group task, show evidence that you can work well in a team and listen to others ideas. Practice your interview skills wherever you can, and be aware of your strengths and weaknesses. Interviewers also like it when you know a lot about the company, therefore you should do some research into the history of MBDA and its shareholders. they like to hear when you have been involved in extra curricular activities and other jobs.