Technical Apprenitce Review

At BAE Systems I am currently working on various projects for different customers we have. Without going into too much detail (due to security protocols at BAE Systems), I deal with customer queries and update a database we have here to answer customers and give them answers for problems. I have previously worked in different departments of a similar nature.

In BAE Systems I have learnt how to answer phone calls and emails to higher-up employees/managers and ensure that my response is formal and sufficient for the work I am undertaking. I have also experienced new work on the shop floor, and done some mechanical and electrical work at college as well as CAD work, which I have put into practice in our Design department.

I really enjoy my programme. I was unsure if engineering was for me but after experiencing different routes of engineering I have been introduced to hands-on work, software work and technical work. I chose technical work as I think it best suits my likes and skills. This work is primarily using computers to create graphs, answer customer queries or issuing documents.

BAE Systems is a great company to work for and I feel really valued by them. The apprentice leader here at Brough is really friendly and always takes time to ask us how we are and if we need anything doing for us or any help with our work. I feel like part of the company even though I am only an apprentice and I think that BAE have invested quite a lot in me and my college work.

My programme moving round various departments is pretty well structured however we have encountered problems in the past with departments not being able to fully support me and other apprentices however if we feel we are undervalued by any area we can always tell our apprentice supervisor and action will be taken. I have enjoyed the majority of the departments I have been too so far.

My training provider at college is fairly supportive. We are currently in the midst of having one-to-one interviews/conversation with our form tutor where we go over work completed and what we think we can achieve by the end of the college course. We can send our tutors emails with any work and ask them for any help when undertaking our assignments outside of college hours as well.

My apprentice leader at BAE is really supportive. We have official 12-week reviews with our currently department supervisor to check over our progress and discuss possible changes or problems within my placement. Apart from this my apprentice leader occasionally sees myself and other apprentices more regularly for a brief conversation and update on how we are and how we’re getting on etc.

My salary started off fairly low in my first year at about £11/£12k a year. After looking up minimum wage for apprentices though this didn’t seem too bad, plus our course is all fully paid for too. Since the first year here, we have had yearly wage increases for completing our HNC/college work and our NVQ work in the business. Our work is checked then the payment increase is put in for each apprentice after the apprentice year has finished (usually by August).

We are occasionally send emails for local events and also primarily charity events the company is taking part in. Most apprentices are asked to help out with events within the business as we do not need to book ours for these unlike full-time employees. We have also had opportunities to go on a German exchange trip, apprentice innovation challenge and to be a STEM ambassador too.

Yes

The apprenticeship scheme here is great and it frustrates me there was no mention of apprenticeships when I was in school. All that was mentioned to myself and my peers in school was university and I think apprenticeships are more worthwhile and will not put as many young people in debt with student fees and not having a job by the time they are in their early-mid 20’s. Although a job is not guaranteed at the end of the apprenticeship I’d say the likelihood of NOT having one here at Brough is really slim.

The process you go through is really long and applicants start to fill in online forms during February and the start of the year. I would say to take your time with the forms and ensure you present yourself in the best way. Try to think of ways to stand out from other applicants and if you’re lucky enough to get an interview then practice what answers you may give and ensure you give your best.