Designer Review

My job falls under the title of "designer",and this is a desk job that involves using modelling programmes to create products that can be used to manufacture projects on huge scales. As well as this, I am required to input data and information regarding the jobs that I undertake using other administration programmes such as 'Teamcenter', 'SAP' and Outlook. Occasionally I am also expected to attend meetings with different people in order to discuss aspects of certain jobs and tasks as well as report on progress that has been made.

In terms of new skills that I have learnt since beginning my apprenticeship, these are mostly centred around my ability to use design and modelling programmes. Previous to beginning my job, I had never used anything as technically challenging as the programmes as I am required to in order to carry out my job, therefore meaning that I have learnt and developed my skills using these. I have also had the chance to further develop my professional people skills within a real life workplace, gaining invaluable life and employment skills that I may not have gained in a job elsewhere.

One aspect that I really do enjoy regarding my apprenticeship programme is the level of structure that is implemented; this provides a level of organisation and routine that I enjoy having weekly.

It is clear from the very beginning of the apprenticeship programme how much BAE as a company value each and every one of their apprentices through the amount of time, effort, money and responsibility they invest within us. Not only this, but they implement and put a huge support system into place in order to ensure that we are happy and healthy within not only our professional work life, but our personal life too.

The apprenticeship programme that is implemented for us provides constant structure and routine within our jobs. We are expected to work 3 full days per week, a "half day Friday", as well as spending one full day with our learning provider (Furness College) to ensure that we achieve all of the required qualifications. Once aged 18 and above, we are also granted the opportunity to work "flexi hours"; this involves choosing the hours that you wish to work everyday (within the understanding that you will be present within all "core" hours) as long as you work a total of 37.

The teaching received from the tutors within Furness College is enough to help us gain the qualifications required in order for us to do our job correctly. However, I do feel that it needs to be acknowledged that one teaching technique is not always best suited to every person. It is known that numerous people have brought this to the attention of the college/employer, stating that they feel it is a struggle to understand the content of lessons where the tutor refuses to approach the it in a different manner. As a result of this, some people end up struggling and feeling as though they can't ask for help due to stubborn tutors refusing to acknowledge that they may need to adapt their teaching technique.

The support provided by BAE Systems is evident from the very beginning of the apprenticeship and is continually implemented and emphasised upon on regular occasions. This is not only something that they provide within and regarding your professional, working life but also something that they offer with regards to personal difficulties and struggles. The company also ensures that this support system is recognised as being readily available to anyone who may require it through regular email posts/bulletins, as well as organising "apprentice forums" where it is discussed and encouraged to be used.

Within the first year of the apprenticeship your salary is calculated with regards to your age, therefore taking into account any expenses that may be accumulated. However, after this first year each apprentice receives the same amount of money each month and this is increased six monthly. After this, the full job salary is paid when you 'time complete' and become qualified in the job role you have trained in. This wage is always above the national minimum wage and this is something that is rarely given within any other business that runs apprenticeship programmes.

Although I have not been offered a lot of different chances to take part in things outside of work, I am aware that there are different opportunities that can be taken advantage of in order to enrich your life both professionally and personally. These often take place locally, involving people from within not only the business but also the surrounding area and benefits the local community directly.

Yes

Working for BAE Systems provides you with a secure and stable job, the ability to progress and earn a very respective wage at the same time. I would recommend working for this company to anyone that is looking to have a professional but enjoyable work life.

Ensure that you familiarise yourself about the history of the company, what they make, why, who for and the reason of which the product is so greatly important.