Business Apprentice at BAE Review

Business Apprentice within the programme of Typhoon, currently in the Resource Planning Team. Daily tasks include checking the trackers for each department making sure the information is up to date and shows each individuals current location. Weekly task include updating the different departments packs showing if there has been any employees of sick that week, taken any holidays/ flexi days. I interact with the shop floor supervisors as they provide the information for the weekly update within the packs. Responsibilities include producing weekly dashboards for the operations managers and then reviewing this with them and to support the IBP/ cost base reforecast activities.

I have developed my Excel skills such as how to create macros in order to automate a spreadsheet to make it easier to use and allows the higher level managers to focus more on higher value workload instead of spending hours copying and pasting various information into different spreadsheets and then into a final pack to present at a meeting. Currently working towards my NVQ which I will be doing all the way through my apprenticeship and I have just started my Project Management course at Runshaw Adult College. I was trained in one of the systems used within Logistics of Typhoon called EAM, this is the asset tracking database and helps the tooling team track where each asset is on the shop floor and provides other information such as value of the asset, the supplier, its calibration date etc...

I enjoy coming to work as I feel like I am adding value to the company even though I am only 19. The teams always welcome you into their team when you start your placement and are always happy to help if you need something explaining or just further training on a task. The company in general is a very reputable company to work for and is always thought of as a good place to work, hence one of my reasoning for applying for this apprenticeship. The company is recognised world wide and has many benefits such as one of the best pension schemes, flexible working hours, good salaries etc... I didn't have any expectations before starting as this was my first time working full time and within the aerospace industry so I didn't really know what to expect. I can honestly say I enjoy working at BAE Systems and wouldn't want to work anywhere else as its not just a job you can progress up the ladder and further your career, plus there are opportunities to work abroad so the progression is endless.

The managers are always supportive and appreciate any improvement you can add to their department as you are helping to improve the department in the future. Internally you can receive above and beyonds which shows that you have been recognised for your constant hard work and support. The teams build up a trust in you and give you important tasks to do and give you a great level of responsibility making you feel valued as part of the team and adding value to the company.

The induction to the apprenticeship is a detailed two week course covering all the necessary topics that need to be covered before entering into the business. There is constant opportunity to attend training courses in various topics and you are constantly supported as NVQ workshops are organised. This gives you the opportunity to speak to the apprentice assessors and ask for any advice if you are struggling with a certain assignment. Furthermore regular NVQ reviews are organised so that your progress can be tracked. The apprenticeship is well structured over the two years with all your placement lengths outlined from the start and they have a clear idea of how long each unit of the NVQ should take and will encourage you to complete them in the allocated time slots so that you don't end up behind.

Much support is gained as the apprentice assessors are always available to talk to by either ringing them or by email. As mentioned above constant support as NVQ workshops are organised. This gives you the opportunity to speak to the apprentice assessors and ask for any advice if you are struggling with a certain assignment. Furthermore regular NVQ reviews are organised so that your progress can be tracked. The apprenticeship is well structured over the two years with all your placement lengths outlined from the start and they have a clear idea of how long each unit of the NVQ should take and will encourage you to complete them in the allocated time slots so that you don't end up behind.

The Managers on the team you are in are always available to speak to and respond promptly to emails if you ever need any help or support. I have never needed to as of yet to contact HR but I presume they will act in the appropriate manner and support you when needed. There is always someone for example in your team willing to help you or assist you in with an issue you may be having with the task set. Always a positive attitude when it comes to supporting you.

I still currently live with my parents so I don't have any bills as such to pay. I pay board each month but this is easily paid for with my salary. Samlesbury, which I am currently based at is only 15 minutes from my house so I don't use much petrol each week so my salary covers this well. The location of the site is well situated as it is close to the motorway if needed so easily accessible to all. From hearing about the salary of other apprenticeships we are well paid and covers all costs necessary.

Opportunities outside of work vary such as Recruitment evenings which was a company event I took part in which involved me talking to potential applicants for next years intake answering any questions they may have about the apprenticeship before they apply. Other opportunities include becoming a STEM Ambassador which is where you go into school and talk about what you do, your route into the company etc... Also other schemes are available to sign up for such as the German Exchange programme and the Princes Trust Scheme. There is a local leisure club to the right of the Samlesbury site which includes a gym and other sporting facilities which is available for BAE employees and members of the local community.

Yes

It's a very reputable company to work for and provides different career paths once in the business. Helps you to develop not just manual skills such as excel improvement but personal skills such as communication, teamwork and confidence. Since working here my confidence has grown and since doing my End Of Placement Presentation I know feel more comfortable speaking in front of a group of people delivering a presentation.

In the application process I would recommend you provide as much details as aloud to really sell yourself and create a good first impression as this it the first thing they will see of you so make sure you stand out. In the interview stage make sure you know what you are talking about inside and out so that you look confident in what you are discussing. Know about the company and the apprenticeship your applying for so this means previous research before the interview as they will ask you about what you know. There are so many opportunities within BAE so I would say just volunteer for everything as you never know where it could take you in your career.