Technical Apprentice Review

During the apprenticeship I rotate round different departments completing 4 month placements. On a day-to-day basis I am given tasks from my line manager along with an insight as to what the task entails and if there is any specific process that needs to be followed. Following this, a deadline will usually be set for when the work needs completing for.

Since starting my apprenticeship I have completed my HNC and have started my HND along with other qualifications such as ERR etc. I have also learnt a lot of processes of which are used throughout the company and in different positions. One of the main skills I have developed is presenting material in meetings and computer skills such as excel and word.

So far I have enjoyed my apprenticeship from the start. The main aspects that make my apprenticeship enjoyable is the people I work with, as they don't mind offering their knowledge and help aswell as making it a nice environment to work in. Another reason is due to all of the valuable skills and knowledge I am picking up on the way and putting into practise.

BAE Systems and the people who work here are very good at making individuals feel included and appreciated. When moving onto new departments it can be quite daunting as you do not know anyone. But from personal experience, everyone within the team is very approachable, makes you feel comfortable and included and they all speak to you and offer help and support.

All throughout my apprenticeship the structure has been perfect. Every year there is an organised structure of which departments I will be going in along with key contacts of the department. As well as my training within the company, also my college course is very well organised with specified days a will be at college to complete my HND and all the supervisors know of this college day too.

The support I receive from my training manager is very good and can't be faulted. At least once a week my training manager comes to see me to see how I am getting on and if there is any help I require. Not only this but I also have 12 week reviews with my training manager and department manager to see how I am getting on and if training can offer any help.

BAE Systems supports me very well in many ways. As mentioned previously, my training manager sees me once a week minimum but as for the company/site, there are site communications which keep me updated with anything that is occurring on the site and throughout the business and any opportunities that are occurring such as exchange schemes etc.

Due to me living on my own, a lot of my salary goes on living but still allows me to enjoy activities outside of work such as socialising and attending sporting events which is my main interest. Since working at BAE Systems and paying for my own place I have not had to extremely worry about money although BAE offer support to anyone with financial problems.

At BAE Systems Brough there are many opportunities for external events such as STEM events and engineering challenges of which a team from Brough are entered to compete against other engineering companies. As well as this, there are also chances to go to seminars about different topics which are related to BAE Systems or the aircraft industry.

Yes

BAE Systems is a very good place to work as they look after their employees extremely well and are constantly looking for ways to push employees to better themselves. Not only this but the line of work is very interesting and is good to be part of too. Also, due to the amount of support you receive you won't be facing many different problems in the work place either and hopefully be stress-free.

To try your very best during the online applications and test. To do sufficient research about the company before your interview and aim to impress your interviewers to the best you can. Also to take any opportunities that become apparent as it is all good learning and develops you to become the individual you will be.