Rating
- 1. Please give an overview of your role and what this involves on a day-to-day basis:
- 2. Have you learnt any new skills or developed existing skills?
- 3. To what extent do you enjoy your programme?
- 4. How valued do you feel by BAE Systems?
- 5. How well organised/structured is your programme?
- 6a. How much support do you receive from your training provider?
- 6b. How much support do you receive from your employer?
- 7. How well does your salary/package meet your costs?
- 8. Are there many opportunities outside of work?
- 9. Would you recommend BAE Systems to a friend?
- 9b. Why?
- 10. What tips or advice would you give to others applying to BAE Systems?
The day to day working can vary between job roles as there are a variety of different placements that you can experience within this apprenticeship. On a day to day basis I am act as the link between our Customers and our internal organisation. This means I am in constant communication, pushing to resolve issues and working with our customers to improve our service.
I have earned the equivalent or an APMP Qualification in Project Management and am working to complete a Foundation degree and an honours degree in Project Management. Through my roles I have significantly developed my communication skills and confidence in putting forward my ideas.
The company is very good at looking after its employees, and much emphasis is applied to providing development opportunities for its apprentices. I enjoy my programme, there is always support provided and I enjoy working with my colleagues.
I am often thanked for the work that I have done and feel a valued member of the team. With it being a large company it is not always easy to get business wide recognition, however there are opportunities through different awards for work that is above and beyond.
The structure of our programme is very well organised. One day a week is spent at college and the remaining four are spent in work. There are regular meetings with college tutors and scheme leaders to assess the attainment of competencies for the apprenticeship. Over the five year scheme you will have five different placements to get a wide experience of work. There is support available to be able to work abroad and in on RAF bases whilst still completing the degree course. There is a mentor system in place on the scheme and within the business to help with development.
I find the tutors are very supportive and will often give time to sit with you to review draft assignments and to talk through any elements of the modules that you find difficult. It is sometimes difficult to contact them however when it is not your college day due to their other teaching requirements.
Our scheme leaders have provided a huge amount of support for me over the past few years. They are always working to ensure you are in a placement that will build your experience but also will suit your style of working. They also provide pastoral support with any issues you may be having.
We are paid very well as apprentices. I find that my salary usually covers all my necessary payments such as car, fuel, rent and living costs, whilst still leaving some for social costs. The salary increases throughout the scheme also.
There are multiple sports teams available and a charity organisation within the company which provides events throughout the year to get involved in. However there are not a huge amount of outside opportunities.
Yes
They are a supportive employer with a scheme that allows you to build professional experience and earn a degree with no fees. You are also paid very well.
Ensure you have experience working with different people. Being able to demonstrate how you can communicate effectively and work with people you do not always get on with is a key element they will look for.
Details
Degree Apprenticeship
Engineering
North West
May 2017