Project Management Higher Apprentice Review

My title is 'Project Management Higher Apprentice' and my daily tasks will really vary depending on what the deadlines are for work to be completed. As a project management apprentice one of the main things you will be involved in is scheduling and ensuring deadlines for tasks are met. I go to multiple sites frequently -and these are based all over the country. A lot of my work is desk work -however, the office environment is friendly.

During this apprenticeship, we study for a foundation degree and an APMQ qualification. Both of these qualifications will take 3 years to achieve -and after the foundation degree is completed, we are able to progress onto a full degree (which would take an additional 2 years). All of which is funded by the company. We have the opportunity to take part in many internal and external training courses which may aid us in having a greater understanding of the business or specific processes. Moving from a school environment to an office environment was challenging at first, however my ability to communicate effectively/properly has greatly improved in the short time I have been with the company.

The atmosphere within the office is friendly, and there is a quite high demographic of younger people -as BAE also takes in graduates. This allows us to be more social in and outside of the office. Many of our graduates and apprentices end up being really good friends, as e are all in a similar situation with common interests. We also have friends who we will see at University once a week. I enjoy the working atmosphere here as it is very professional, yet we are still able to feel relaxed in the workplace.

Unlike other companies who offer apprenticeships, BAE Systems has a high retention rate of their apprentices -meaning almost all get offered a permanent role upon completion of the 3 year scheme. I feel valued by BAE Systems as they promote personal and professional development -especially with the opportunity to achieve professional qualifications alongside academic qualifications. BAE encourage involvement in community engagement activities such as careers fairs and activity days. 20% of your working time in the first year is expected to be dedicated to these 'stretch' activities.

The induction we had was ran by the graduates who had been with the business for a year -this was a very well structured week where we even had the opportunity to get a tour of the dockyards where the submarines are built. You have support from the early careers team, as well as your placement manager and others who may be in your team. The review processes to ensure you are on track are well thought out and are a good measure of the new skills you have learnt over your time at the company. The university-side of things has all been organised for us, so we did not need to worry about applying through UCAS or anything.

The university we attend supplies educational tutors should you need any help with the academic side of this apprenticeship. These support workers (also known as HELMS) can be contacted via information on our university Moodle page. We are also able to access any support and advice that may already be provided on that Moodle page. Our tutor is also available to us via email or when we are at university, should we have any questions or need support.

Within BAE we have also been supplied with mentors. These mentors are people within BAE who are very experienced and knowledgeable of the company. These mentors are here to support and guide professional and personal development, whether this be financial advice on how to save money or what role you would like to end up in your working life. Other members of the early careers team are always available should you need advice.

Luckily for me, I do not live far from my place of work (about 7 miles or so), so travel costs are not taking up a big chunk of my salary. Obviously as a first year apprentice I am not going to be making too much at this point -however, the salary offered at BAE is very generous compared to other companies I have seen. The starting salary for Project Management apprentices is £18.3k. Because of the generous salary, it allows me to save money for my future.

We have many external activities you are able to get involved in here at BAE Systems. Many of us go to the local gym after work and take part in classes such as spinning. However, there are also company teams for 5-a-side football and for cricket. Community engagement is widely encouraged here -meaning we attend many careers fairs and other activities such as the big bang science fair. The higher apprentices at the office will also take part in a 'HA Lunch' once a month -this is where we will get out of the office for lunch and socialise for a bit.

Yes

Any apprenticeship is a great alternative to university, however, at BAE Systems the employees are valued no matter what their level of skill or experience. The atmosphere is friendly and it is easy to make friends. The pay is generous and you are able to achieve the same qualifications as if you went to university -with added professional qualifications. The job security once you've finished your apprenticeship is very high and BAE will continue to support you with development even after you are finished with the scheme.

The applications for many of the higher apprenticeships open in November time and close around January/February. The process includes numerical reasoning and other tests. From my experience, they prefer candidates with background in the military, such as the cadets -or even just those who have had experience leading a team. Assessment centres take place in Feb/March and offers will be received up to 2 weeks after. You would then have to complete a security check (this is the long bit). Once security is completed and you have achieved the needed grades, the formal contract will be sent. The apprenticeship would start in September.