Business Apprentice Review

I am a business apprentice working within the Procurement function. There is no true "day to day" role for a BMA, as the work is so diverse. In my current role I am responsible for running an upgrade programme for technical items, ensuring the team remains cash neutral and processing invoices.

I have learnt and developed a wide array of skills - ranging from hard to soft. Hard skills such as being able to work well on Microsoft Excel and other BAE Systems-specific software are essential to being able to get the job done. However, soft skills like self-organisation, presentation skills and the ability to lead and manage others are just as important. I feel that the new skills that I have learnt are hard whilst I have developed my pre-existing soft skills.

I really enjoy the programme, particularly as the vast majority of my time is spent on the job instead of in the classroom. I think that it was the best choice for me after college, over a full time university degree. Very supportive team around me and apprentices are highly regarded within the company.

Yes, I feel really values by BAE Systems. The time and investment that they have put into my training and development really demonstrates this. Alongside my professional development, they also encourage and support the development of the whole person, shown by the vast amounts of extra curriculum activities they encourage apprentices to undertake.

I think that it is very well organised and structured, with set timeframes and requirements. Everyone on the scheme is aware of what they need to do to progress to the next level.

As a business apprentice within BAE Systems I receive lots of support from my training provider. I am supported by my assessor, line manager, Early Careers HR rep, Safeguarding Rep, Union Rep and Early Careers Quality Rep. The support can range from pastoral to professional. The company is also very eager to ensure that all apprentices are aware of the rules surrounding safeguarding which is a great thing and very reassuring.

I receive a large amount of support from my employer. This can range from pastoral to professional. Senior managers are also willing to help and support apprentices, as they see us being the future of the company. Many are eager to become mentors to us and encourage us to nip into to their offices for informal chats.

I think that my salary is very competitive. It exceeds my monthly costs and as a result I am able to save heavily for my future, i.e. saving for a house. We are also able to purchase shares in the company which is an excellent long term savings option. The company pension is also very highly regarded. Apprentices are also entitled to receive a bonus along with professional staff if the company meets its targets which is a great incentive.

Yes, there are so many extra curriculum opportunities. These are extremely varied but some examples are: German Exchange (a three week exchange to Munich), Prince's Trust, STEM Ambassador and Outward Bound (a compulsory week spent learning about team work and bonding with other apprentices). There are many also ad-hoc opportunities that are open to apprentices.

Yes

I would recommend BAE Systems as an employer, without a doubt. I think it's a fantastic company to work for with unlimited global opportunities available. I look forward to my career with the company and I think that I will be supported all the way in it. I think there is such much diversity in the company which means that I can be working with aircraft for one period of time and ships at another.

Be yourself. Come across as really enthusiastic on the application form (and hopefully interview!) Make sure you do your research on the company; keep up to date with the news on BAE Systems and make sure you're aware of our customer and products. Make sure your CV is rounded - try and get involved with things like sports clubs/STEM clubs to show that you're a rounded and interesting individual.