Apprentice Review

I am now currently working for BAE Systems full time in the weapons department. My experience going through the apprenticeship scheme was really positive and it gave me some new skills and I am currently studying a degree in mechanical engineering. On a daily basis I usually have a brief team meeting first thing in the morning then get on with my daily work which can vary depending on our customer queries or problems.

During my apprenticeship I completed my HNC and HND. I enjoyed studying these as I was with my fellow apprentices and we were able to help each other through our assignments and work. I developed my general engineering skills as well as skills in mechanical engineering, materials, maths, pneumatics and electrics too. At work I have used new databases which help me with certain pieces of work and I have also been on our CAD package as well as some machinery on the shop floor.

I really enjoyed my programme during an apprentice as it was (in my own words) a 'halfway' experience between still being at school and starting a job. I was with other apprentices of the same/similar age so we made friends pretty quick which was nice and I was also able to get my foot in the door with working at BAE systems and starting my career too. Overall it was thoroughly enjoyable.

I feel really valued by BAE as they have supported me all the way through my apprenticeship and have provided me with PPE equipment and also help and support during any NVQ and college work too. The fact that I am sponsored to continue my education whilst being paid to work within the business is really great and I would definitely recommend it to anyone thinking about applying for an apprenticeship.

During my apprenticeship my programme was very well organised here at brough. We were always given feedback and given details of where we would be working next within the business and there was always a plan put in place for rotating around different buildings and areas on site to experience different types of work such as design, weapons, structures, airworthiness and aerodynamics.

Currently at university I receive some support from my lecturers, they always encourage to ask questions, email and talk to them after our lectures/classes if we need to. During my apprenticeship I was also offered help and occasionally had meetings with my tutors to discuss my progress and any issues or help I needed with assignments. I never felt left out and I knew help was always there for me if I needed it.

My apprenticeship supervisor was always very helpful and informal when we had chats. He would usually come round a few times a week to speak to all the apprentices and check up on them and ensure we were happy and enjoying the work and department we were in. He always asked if we needed anything or if there was anything else the business could be doing for us. Our apprenticeship was very supportive of us.

When I first joined BAE systems as a first year apprentice my salary wasn't too high. Comparing it to minimum wage for apprentices though it was pretty decent and fairly reasonable so you can't really complain. As I went through each year (ensuring I was up to date with my work and with my college work) we got pay rises and this encouraged us to keep up the good work and to ensure the next year would be of a similar outcome.

Ever since I started working at BAE Systems, we have always been encouraged by the HR team to take part in local events in the community and also internal work events to support the charities that BAE Systems work in conjunction with. Some events suit different people so it's always nice to get a mix and get the opportunity to choose. During my apprenticeship (and before I booked my hours!) I was given the chance to do a lot more including a German exchange trip.

Yes

BAE Systems is a great company and I would definitely recommend it to anyone. The pay is good although does not seem it straight away and after you complete the apprenticeship you are highly likely to be offered a full time job and you are also able to put a reference of the departments you prefer and would most likely be able to get a job in. You learn lots of new skills on BAE and meet some lovely and helpful people and usually the apprentices in your year are of a similar age so you should make some great close friendships with them too and support each other and help each other through your apprenticeship too.

I would say to start the process of applying as soon as possible as the process is fairly long and you need to fill in an online application about yourself which may take a while. The process is definitely worth it so be patient and also do your best and talk about your skills and what you want for your future. If you're lucky enough to get an interview then definitely ensure you know more about the company and to talk about charity work you've done as well as think about answers to possible interview questions that may be given to you.