Nuclear Higher Apprentice Review

My role is a Nuclear Engineering Higher Apprentice at BAE Systems in Barrow in Furness. During my first 3 years of my apprenticeship I move around the business doing 3-6 month placements in a range of different nuclear related areas. In my final 2 years I work in my exit role doing job specific training and development.

Whilst I have only been on this scheme for about 6 months I have learnt lots of new skills. I am currently undertaking a degree in Nuclear Engineering which is giving me lots of knowledge around the maths and physics of the Nuclear / Engineering world. In work I am developing valuable business skills such as networking and am getting important knowledge of the company and how it works.

I very much enjoy my programme. All of the people I have worked with have been very friendly and supportive and have a lot of knowledge that they are keen to share with me. The work is interesting and we are given projects that are challenging. The company is very experienced in trainings apprentices and so the culture reflects this.

Both my line manager and my discipline manager are very keen and always look to support me in any way they can. I know that I have there support in any issues I face both in work and out of work as well. I won apprentice of the month in January. It was nice to receive this recognition for my hard work leading up to this.

Overall the scheme is structured well. All of my placements are set out at the start of the scheme which provides clarity however it can often make it difficult to tailor the scheme to your own personal areas of interest. The degree course is structured well however training within work is not managed as effectively. The support and inductions are structured very well. We have a mentor scheme however it isn't managed and is a bit unnecessary.

Most of the tutors are good. They are all very knowledgeable and have lots of industry experience however because of this I have found on occasion s tutor may fail to probably explain the basics as it has become second nature to them. The support staff are very proactive and there general attitude is very good.

Both my line manager and my discipline manager are very supportive. The support networks in place within the company are very good and I feel confident that whatever issues I have I could get the support I need. I have a mentor however I have only ever had contact with them on one occasion and don't really see the benefit. The HR / Services team are adequate.

I feel I have a good salary however I cannot afford to move out on it. I want to be able to buy my own house and become more self-sufficient however the wage I get simply can't support that. I have limited travel costs and the daily cost of food etc. is acceptable. There isn't much in terms of 'social' in the local area and so travelling away is often required which comes with a greater cost.

There is lots of opportunity's to get involved in 'stretch' work such as projects in the community and local schools. This is mainly focused around the STEM theme however there is also lots of general community activates. The company runs lots of events for young people in the area which are mainly biased around STEM and recruitment. The only area I would say is limit is social events, I would like to see more on offer.

Yes

BAE Systems runs a range of well established apprenticeship schemes at all levels. The practical on the job experience is second to none and the educational aspect is delivered by the top education providers in the country. The support and the structure is good and the work is challenging but enjoyable. The money is good considering the company pays for your degree. I also feel there is job security with BAE Systems.

Put lots of time into your application. A good application will not only get you to the next stage of the process but will make practise for your interview much easier as you can use your application to revise what you want to say. Relax, the interviews / assessment day isn't as scary as you might think. Whilst it is tough and you have to work hard the atmosphere is relaxed and the day is enjoyable.