Nuclear Higher Apprentice Review

Monday involves a day at Blackpool & The Fylde College where I study a range of modules towards a degree in Nuclear Engineering. During the rest of the week I attend work and am currently in a placement rotation plan which means my work varies depending on which department I am currently in. Some of the work is mostly office based while other areas involve operations.

During my time in my apprenticeship so far I have developed skills mainly in an office environment as this is the only type of placement I have been in as of yet. Before starting I had no experience with the software Excel and since being here I have developed a good understanding and am able to use it in my day to day work.

I enjoy the college time mostly as this is where I learn about the more nuclear side of things including reactor systems, safety and nuclear accidents. Whilst in work I enjoy larger projects that involve spread sheets, meetings and discussions with stakeholders. I also have control of any stretch activities I would like to take part in.

The placement rotation plan was already laid out before I arrived in my apprenticeship which was brilliant as I know exactly what I'm doing for the next few years. The method in which I am assessed however, isn't as great as at the moment it's not been fully explained and it seems like there a range of opinions as to what actually happens for us to be assessed.

The support I receive is good. I have regular reviews with my managers and have fortnightly catch ups with the rest of my cohort and our manager. Support is easily accessible at all times and I am regularly reminded that the team and my managers can help me out if I need them to,

At college I receive plenty of support. We are invited to email our tutors with any questions or concerns at any time throughout the week and they regularly check on how we're doing with our work. The day is split between two tutors who teach different modules and both are extremely helpful and supportive.

This works both ways as in my first placement I learned about certain things that came up in modules in my second semester which helped me with these modules. What I have learned at college so far hasn't really applied to my work other than that however, this should change when I move on to more relevant modules.

There are a number of extra-curricular activities available and we are invited to organise our own if we want to, obviously with approval from managers. There are also side projects available that we can take part in, involving presentations at colleges and secondary schools and STEM activities. All of these are helpful and are readily available.

Yes

I would recommend BAE Systems to a friend, and have done in the past, because I think that the scheme that is available is a brilliant way to develop knowledge and skills and apply them everyday. The scheme also offers a brilliant starting salary to kick-start your career and provides you with important qualifications that you can take with you for life.

Definitely look into exactly what happens on the course as much as you can beforehand. Ask about the college modules and any training courses that are available at work at open days and careers fairs. Read into the history of the company and definitely take advantage of the buddy scheme that is offered to you before starting.