Engineering Higher Apprentice Review

Working as an Engineering Higher Apprentice has granted me numerous opportunities within Maritime Services. As apprentices we have the chance to move into 6 different and challenging realms of engineering, during the course of our program. This allows us to sample many facets of the business and ultimately find our purpose. The work is varied and can be exciting. I believe what you get out is solely determined by what you put in. Initiative and work ethic are crucial to this program.

Over the course of this program we will assimilate a great deal of knowledge. This will of course include academic qualifications (HNC & HND), which are largely classroom based. In addition to this, we all work towards a Level 4 NVQ, which is a work based qualification. This is then coupled with post apprenticeship degree opportunities and real world experience.

As a whole, very much. Like everything there are ups and downs, but as mentioned above, what you get out of the program is determined by what you put in. All the people I have encountered so far have been very supportive and patient. Many relish the opportunity to teach young, keen engineers. The company as a whole is very supportive to all employees, regardless of grade. I know that if I have a problem, it will most likely be solved.

We all feel valued within the company. As the new batch of young engineers coming through the program, we are treated as the future of the company. Many senior members of the business came up through similar programs. We all strive to do well and achieve as much as possible. Many of us receive letters of recognition, exceed awards and even national awards. If you put the work in, it does not go unnoticed.

Well structured but certainly room for improvement. CEMAST is (in my opinion) the weak link of the program. A better education provider would truly boost the apprenticeship. Induction process is well planned and provides an introduction to the program. Placements are assigned through a rotation spread sheet. A list of opportunities would be useful. This list would outline all the departments and job roles within Maritime Services. I believe this would aid us in locating our preferred path. Finding the right placement that aligns with your aspirations is challenging.

As mentioned above, CEMAST is the weak link. I do believe some improvements do need to be made, with regard to our education provider. This would further improve the program, and possibly entice more young people who are undecided about university. The support structure is there but I find it better to solve any problems on my own. Much of the current years course content has been self taught.

There is a large amount of support for all employees within the company, especially for Early Careers. Our managers are very attentive to any problems we may have. They also strive to give us the best start possible. Within our placements we generally have a primary manager and a more focussed mentor.

This of course varies from person to person, but I do feel this program is better paid than other apprenticeships. My salary is more than enough to cover my personal living expenses. We also have access to various incentive programs (SIP). Travel costs to college are covered by the company (£10.35 per journey). This pays for all my fuel expenses.

STEM is a large part of the business and provides an excellent opportunity to promote engineering. It is also allows individuals to network with other engineers across various branches. In addition to this , there are a plethora of activities, events, clubs and hobby's to get involved with. Being an MOD contractor also affords us certain benefits, such as access to gyms.

Yes

Yes I would absolutely recommend BAE Systems. As one of the best apprenticeship programs in the country, any individual looking to bypass a degree and enter straight into industry, would be hard pressed to find a better program. With the emergence of future degree level programs within the company, this course of action is very appealing. We are almost certainly guaranteed a job at the end of our program, which is not something you get from a degree.

Application Process: Be honest. Don't let nerves get in the way of showing them who you really are. Do plenty of research. Enjoy it and learn from it. The experience will aid you in future pursuits. While on the program: Work hard. Take in as much information as possible and always show initiative. Your reputation is very important and begins the moment you put your name down on the application form.