Apprentice Review

As an apprentice within BAE Systems, my job role changes every 18 weeks but my current job role is within Airframe integration and I am working with the capability & developments team who are currently focussing on ALM (additive Layer Manufacture). My role within the team is to work alongside my collegeues who are trying to qualify the materials and refine the process of ALM so that this can be used in the development of jet aircraft. this isvolves producing company documents and also trialing different techniques and carrying out testing to ensure the materials will be safe to fly on aircraft.

I am currently studying for a HNC after obtaining my ONC last year. I have had a range of training offerend and delivered to through the training centre where i learnt hand skills and obtained my PEO and also i have comleted ICT key skills and PLTS. Due to being placed into very different roles i have also recived some specialist training such as cockpit awareness and aircraft safety and i have completed CAD training to set me up when i work in design.

I think that the apprenticeship itrself is extremely varied and enjoyable when the placement that you have been assign to is a good team to work with. Some placements are not set up well for apprentices however and this can mean the placement being dull and not contributing to your NVQ and this is not always know to the training centre.

as an apprentice the compnay holds you in as much regard as any other member of staff and we are treated equal so i would say i definatly feel valued by the company.

the programme itself is well structured however the FE side of things i think could do with a bit of improvement.

BAE systems do provide a good range of support and they do help if they are needed.

again thi sis available in all areas however i havent personally needed any to this date.

I feel the salary im on is a good salary to have whilst training and i think it reflect my responsibilities at this time.

There is always oppertuninties out side work. i take part in the football teams and social activities are encouraged between the staff. There are a lot of societies and clubs within the orgainisation aswell that allows you to persue hobbies should you wish.

Yes

This is a great job to have and i have been learning from day one. Its always interesting and varied and allows apprentices to gain a broad overview of the company. This is vital when you dont know what is avaialable to you as a career.

Just make sure that you are confident at interview and you have learnt the things that you feel you need to. I also feel that trying to make your application slightly different can make you stand out from the pile as there are always a lot of applications that come in.