Technical Apprentice Review

My current role is working in Central Engineering contributing (through different tasks) to the two ongoing products being produced by the I&KM team.

Lots of new skills have been learnt throughout my apprenticeship. As a technician I have also been able to get involved with hands on activities taking part in two craft placements. This gives you a great understanding of what manufacturing looks like as a career. Also all the moving around allows you to broaden your knowledge on the company etc. People skills have also improved as you interact with people on a daily basis. I am currently heading towards the end of my first year HNC.

The programme is enjoyable as everything is new, so the tasks you are handed are all interesting. Also every team I have worked in so far have been extremely friendly, helpful and approachable which makes my time here much more relaxed. Also, as the work is based around such a fascinating vehicle interest is high.

I feel very privileged to be part of BAE Systems. They provide lots of opportunities to get recognised through various different events and reward schemes. As regards to value in the workplace, I feel as though all my placements have made me a valuable part of their team, and gave me my own responsibilities to provide work for customers.

Pretty organised as everyone has an assessor who the meet on a regular basis to check up on progress being made. College days are one day a week set on a certain day. Both your onsite work and college work is clearly structured from the start so you know what you should be striving towards. Organisation of placements is generally very good with you finding out your next place of work a few weeks before you transfer which gives you time to introduce yourself to your new manager.

We are provided with sufficient support to do the job in hand, if you need any extra support there are plenty of people to talk to and ask advice about where to get the required support. Your assessors handle the majority of your onsite work and they provide support through regular onsite meetings discussing where you’re at and how you are performing in your new placement.

We receive a good amount of support at BAE Systems. There is always someone to talk to about various different things. Your assessor is always on hand to assist you with NVQ problems or hiccups with your PDR (Personal Development Review). Also there is plenty of support from people like HR and Occupational Health to make sure you are fit to work and the work provided is suited to you.

As a 19 year old living at home my salary covers my expenses easily. Maybe for homeowners with children the salary is pretty demanding. However BAE Systems works on the basis of the more qualified you are the more your pay increases so each year as an apprentice you receive a pay rise if work is completed.

There are plenty of opportunities to get involved with outside events like charity work etc. Just in the first year of the apprenticeship you can get involved in things like Charity Challenge and Outward Bound. Charity challenge involves giving up some work time to help a designated charity with any problems they have. We got involved with transforming an overgrown hospice garden. Outward bound is a team building week where you go away up to the lakes taking part in activities to help bring you closer to the apprentices you work with, which promotes team work.

Yes

It is rightfully labeled as one of the best apprenticeships around for the reasons stated above.

Research the company as you don't want to be employed by someone you know nothing about!