Combat Systems Higher Apprentice Review

I'm a Combat Systems Higher Apprentice working on hte Type 26 programme. I work as a Performance Modelling and Simulation Analyst, so my role includes a lot of communication with various subteams to help them better understand the predicted performance. I tend to be involved in writing algortithms and running analyses primarily using Matlab.

In this role I've had the opportunity to learn all about how various different subsystems work as well getting hands on experience working in a multi team discipline. I've had the opportunity to gain I.T. qualifications and work towards MATLAB competencies. On my HA programme I gained a HND in Systems Development.

I really enjoy the engineering work that we do and everything that I am doing to contribute towards the massive programmes that I'm involved with. I enjoy the challenges I face every day and the opportunities i get to learn. The college qualification wasn't what I expected when I first started, however I completed my studies and used opportunites on placements to find a role I enjoyed.

BAE Systems puts a lot of time and effort into supporting Early Careers and there are various opportunities for engagement and development not only as an engineer but as a professional. The benefits I get as an employee are also fantastic and will help me in my career. Funding and support for continued professional development also exists.

My cohort were the first intake for my particular scheme and such there were difficulties early on, particularly in scoping out how the programme would operate.Working with our feedback this has vastly been improved over the years and there is a good structure in place now including line managers, placement managers, buddy's and tutors.

The training provider can at times be difficult depending on the expectations of the students. A lot of the other students don't have the smae levels of commitment and expectation as those working on the scheme and it can often be reflected in the attitudes of the department. The college has seen a number of changes over the years however and is working to offer better support to studies.

There are a range of support optiosn available as you'd expect with a large employer, however in addition there are mentorship opportunities and our line manager is always on ahnd to provide support and guidance whether it is related to work, college or your personal life.

Living in London on the entry salary can be quite difficult, however it far above the national average for Higher Apprentices particularly acknowledging that the first year is full time in studies. The yearly increments are sufficient and my salary is acceptable for my current position. Exit salaries are good and there is immediate opportunity for further progression once off the scheme.

The company offers flexible working in order to support a good work life balance. At different sites there are often employee organised events going on with some subisdies offered to social club members. Being based in London and Bristol there are plenty of opportunities to pursue any type of social life you'd like, and a good number of sociable people to go with.

Yes

I think BAE is a fantastic company to work for as there are so many different roles and opportunities a person can have to reach their career goals. The industry itself is very interesting to those that it appeals to and is vastly important to the nation. The large scale projects are often at the forefront of technology and will provide anyone with great experience in this field.

Be confident in yourself and your own abilities, as with most companies, they are looking at your employability as a person not as a list of qualifications. Ensure you have an interest in the programmes and projects you might be working on and also have an understanding of the sector, whether it be Air, Land or Sea. Assessment centres are about expressing yourself and working with others don't forget that, and use an interview as an opportunity to sell yourself