Business Apprentice Review

I am a Business Administration Apprentice based at Warton in the Air Sector. As an apprentice, I move around the business in different placements, allowing me to see different sides of the company and how they run. I have been placed within the finance function, so all of my placements will be within Finance. My first placement was working within Overseas Accounts, my second placement is working for a project accountant for the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

I had no/little pre-existing knowledge of finance, so I have already been able to acquire basic knowledge, as well as expanding my broader knowledge of the business. I have started studying for my NVQ Level 3 in Business Administration, where we have looked at Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion within the workplace, and also how to Develop and Deliver a Presentation.

The work is very unique in whichever part of the business you work in, meaning that it is very interesting to learn. The company has a reputation of being excellent to work for, and these expectations have already been met. The majority of people I have worked with have been extremely friendly, always going out of their way to help and to increase my knowledge. I am enjoying my role here.

Appreciation is given when necessary. I was praised for my hard work within my last placement by my manager, which always feels rewarding. I have been asked to be involved in a few projects, such as open events and the interview days for new business apprentices, which makes me feel valued within the company.

The induction process was fairly rushed and feedback has been given to the training school for this, but it was very informative and lots of key information was given. We are given placements of 20 weeks each, then an exit role placement of 12 weeks. this is structured the same for all apprentices in the Air Sector.

The assessors are always willing to help with any questions we have, but they encourage us to ask within the apprentice circle first, in order to build a network. Any problems or concerns are always listened to and actioned if possible.

The managers in each placement so far have been helpful and recognise most of the time that as apprentices, we are here to learn and not to always be competent with our roles. I am not afraid to ask for help or ask questions, as this will help me to improve in my role.

We are given a small travel amount in each monthly pay check, which contributes to the cost of travel. It certainly does not cover all travel costs, but it is a great help. We are given pay rises at certain intervals in our apprenticeship, which are given as reward for good work and behaviours.

There are many opportunities to get involved with the local community within enrichment activities that the training school offer us. We are able to volunteer for charities that BAE Systems work with to give support to these charities. Managers also often organise meals within the team and extensions of the team. This is great to be able to build a network.

Yes

BAE Systems is once of the largest defence companies in the world, providing rewarding work to employees and end products to customers. It is a privilege to work within such a highly respected company and I would definitely recommend it to anyone who is looking for a career in business, not just a job.

Make sure you take your time with the application. I spent 3 weeks perfecting mine, to make the most of the opportunity. As characters are limited, it is important to condense your information to make your application stand out as much as possible. In regards to the interview and assessment day, make sure you do your research, as you may be asked what you know about the company. BAE Systems will want to hire people who show an interest in the role, as this increases productivity of work. Confidence is key for the assessment days, as you are assessed on how well you can work with a group. you need to be able to give ideas and also ask other people what they have to input.