Software Engineering Degree Apprentice Review

I'm a software engineering degree apprentice. I work as part of a team to help produce software that is used by a variety of different customers. I switch projects every 6 months. Last project I was testing the software, this time I get to develop the software.

I have learnt a lot of new skills from how to test successfully to some coding. I have also learnt how to behave in an office environment and communicate with my peers.

It's hard work but will be worth it in the end. The programme is good and varied. There are some minor glitches in that the programme is fairly unorganised and I don't feel trusted.

Locally to the team I am in, I feel valued. To the office and management, I don't. We aren't trusted like other employees and being so far from the main BAE office, we are often forgotten.

Not organised at all. The second years on the course don't have their next year university plans sorted and they go in a few months. We aren't told about a lot of important documentation and events, and if we are told, someone else will tell us something different a week later. There's no communication between our office and management. The overall structure and idea of the programme is good, but it isn't executed well due to lack of organisation.

A lot. I feel like I can ask questions if I need to and I am definetly learning things whilst being on the job. There is always support if I need more time for college work, NVQ etc.

Some. If we need help then they are willing to give it. It can take a while to get it, but the oppurtunity is there. There are a lot of different people we can go to if we need help.

Very well. My salary is pretty high considering I'm a first year apprentice with no higher level qualifications. I've been able to move out and rent a house, as well as buy a car etc.

Yes. There are always career fairs and events to help out at and promote the company. There was also the Outward Bound week which was good fun and a great experience to have had.

Yes

There's a lot of good oppurtunities and looks good on the CV. The chance to get a degree whilst gaining experience and getting paid is a chance no one should pass up on. Plus, BAE is reputable and a good company to work for.

The application isn't as hard as you think it's going to be. Be yourself. Don't lie. Make sure you listen to instructions and information from the people doing the interviews.