Higher Apprentice - Mechanical Engineering Review

A standard day for me consists of various different things. I am currently in Astute and I'm writing Tech Notes for the Mechanical Team which is really interesting. Being based in Astute means I regularly go on Boat 5 which is really good as you can see what you're working on and how the changes you make influence the boat.

My apprenticeship always means I am learning new skills and developing existing ones. Going on different placements really helps develop communication and self confidence skills as every 3-4 months you move to a different department and have to integrate into that team. Within the placements you also learn loads of different things like new formulas and different equipment.

Moving away from home meant I was nervous to start here but since day 1 Early Careers make it easy to integrate yourself into the programme, make friends and enjoy your job. I look forward to coming to work as every day is different and unexpected due to the nature of the business in which we work in.

My programme is extremely structured. I have various points of contacts within my placement, the engineering team and early careers meaning there is always someone on hand to help me with my questions, worries or queries. Early careers also do regular Skype meetings to ensure we are up to date on what we are meant to do.

Each step of the way BAE are there to offer guidance and help to me when I need it. This does not just apply to when I am in work either they offer constant support when I am college as well. Early Careers often come into college to do routine check ups and ask us how were are finding college and if thee is anything they can do to aid us in college.

My training provider always provides and guidance support when I am there. All the tutors are very friendly and know their stuff, encourage questions and set us challenging, meaningful work. All the modules I do at college I can relate to work so prove very beneficial when in the workplace

I feel that the college work provides a support role alongside my work. I find it easy to do my job due to the work we do in college as the things we learn in the modules correlate very closely in the things we do in a day to day environment at work.

Early Careers and the Engineering support team set up numerous activities to get involved in. So far I have signed up to be a STEM Ambassador, involved in the Lego Robotics stretch team meaning I go into local schools and provide workshops to educate children on the importance of STEM and have also been to a Diversity and Inclusion event in Preston.

Yes

The work, qualifications and experiences are invaluable in helping you develop into an Engineer as well as a young adult. The support structure throughout the programme is second to none meaning you always know who to go to if you need help. All in all I would recommend BAE to anyone as it is a life changing opportunity.

Do it, the things you learn here will stay with you for the rest of your career. Not only do you get qualifications you get paid to learn which is a no brainer as well as meeting loads of new people and have the ability to get involved in projects to help the local community. The whole experience is great.