Software Apprentice Review

My role as an Engineering Degree Software Apprentice (EDAS) varies from day to day, it involves designing and implementing code, analysing and reviewing other people’s code and fixing issues which may arise from reviews. I get to work on a range of products and use a mix of different software tools and languages such as C# and C++.

Between classroom and on the job training, I have had the opportunity to learn new software based skills, techniques such as learning languages such as C++ and C# and the benefits of various software lifecycles. I have also had the opportunity for personal development is areas such as team leadership, communication with peers and working efficiently.

I find the program to be very enjoyable; each team I have been able to work with are very friendly and welcoming. The workload is always varied, meaning it does not get repetitive as there are always exciting projects to work on. The structure of the scheme still allows for a good work life balance, with plenty of time for life outside of work.

I feel very valued by BAE Systems as the work I am responsible for is meaningful and I can see the impact that the work I have done has on the department. The work in which I am completing doesn’t seem to have been created just to satisfy the apprenticeship. I am involved in discussions and I feel that people listen to and respect my ideas.

Due to the scheme still being relatively new there have been a few issues regarding the scheme, however these have been few and far between and have since been fully addressed. Overall, I think the structure of the scheme is well set up and communication from higher levels such as management is good.

Overall the support from the training provider is good; there are good teaching facilities and knowledgeable lecturers who are willing to help you on an individual basis. Class sizes are reasonably small allowing for time to ask questions and get individual support. One criticism is feedback on assignments/ exams can sometimes be poor.

The support I have received from BAE Systems is excellent; everyone who I have worked with is willing to spend the time explaining and helping you with your current work or point you in the right direction of the best person to answer your questions. There are industry experts who are willing to share their knowledge.

I believe that the annual salary for the apprenticeship is very competitive compared to other similar schemes. It has allowed for me to move out, allowing me to gain independence, whilst still being able to afford other luxuries such as a car etc. There are also other benefits in addition to the salary such as phone discounts and car schemes.

There are lots of opportunities outside of work such as helping out with recruitment fairs and open days at UCLan. These allow apprentices to give advice to potential candidates and spread awareness of the scheme. There are also lots of charity events advertised around site to get involved with as well as sports teams.

Yes

Fantastic scheme which allows you to gain 4-5 years of industry experience whilst obtaining an honours degree fully paid for by the company and earning a very competitive salary. Opportunity to learn from industry experts and create a network of contacts which could open up more opportunities in your future career. Additional benefits such as a great pension and share scheme.

My advice for potential candidates would be to take your time with the application questions ensuring that there are no spelling mistakes and your answer relate to the question. Research the business prior to attending an assessment centre as this shows initiative and will put you in a good position, be confident and enjoy all the tasks.