Naval Architecture Higher Apprentice Review

I am an Apprentice Naval Architect with BAE Systems, daily task include work on paramarine (a marine design CAD Package), buoyancy/stability calculations, and calculations relating to unit moves. Other work can be related to docking of vessels. This involves working with other engineers, in some cases shadowing/learning from them, in other cases you are given your own job to do and write up.

I have developed my communication skills through my time on the scheme, through working with other engineers and members of staff when booking meetings or finding out information, you have to work in a professional manner when doing this. I have also developed my skills in CAD packages during my time here, using different programmes gives you more adaptability when you are introduced to a new package/task.

I find that I learn something new and interesting every day on the programme, there is a good variety of work available, which often allows you to utilise your skills, or learn new ones from a different task. It is very enjoyable and there are lots of opportunities available to gain new experiences.

I feel valued by BAE Systems, they treat us like any other member of the staff, and include you in company activities. Awards won by apprentices are visible on the intranet alongside other company notices.

The program in BAE Systems is structured well, given the large number of apprentices on site, and the length of time some of the programmes have run for, it is established well within the business, with regular reviews it really helps you to develop as an individual, and towards your exit role. There are several people within early careers we can contact with any questions - all are helpful.

My training provider gives us training at a higher education level, and members of staff here are happy to help us with any questions or issues we may have, whether they are related to work or not, we have review meetings with them regularly, on a one to one basis, where we can raise any concerns or ask any questions - these are answered promptly.

BAE Systmes gives us guidance in work on any issues we may have, and members of staff within our departments are happy to help us with any questions or issues we may have, we are given a mentor whom I have review meetings with regularly, and they also give me guidance on professional membership and where I should go on placements, we also have review meetings with early careers regularly to check on this development and that we have no issues.

The salary meets my living costs fairly well, the wage is comfortable to live on so long as you do not have a particularly expensive lifestyle/hobby, and a low rent. For others moving into the area, or of an older age with dependants, the salary may not be comfortable to support others or to live off living far away from home - though it is possible.

There are plenty of groups outside of work who play sport, have hobbies, go out in the local area, along with local branches of professional institutions.

Yes

I enjoy my time on the scheme, I find every day interesting and think that the development I get, along with the opportunity to work on interesting projects it fairly unique. The salary is also good, allowing me to live comfortably. The opportunity to further my education is a big benefit given the cost of university tuition, and the scheme opens up future job opportunities within the business, setting you up for the rest of your career.

For someone looking to apply to BAE systems I would advise to them to take some time looking into the roles available at BAE Systems, and the products that they produce - you might surprise yourself. Ensure they put as much experience down as possible, even if it may not seem that important, and take time to read over the application several times before sub=mitting for grammar and spelling mistakes.