higher apprentice Review

As an engineering trainee, I am expected to support engineering activities related to the design and build of nuclear submarines. My apprenticeship is divided into placements, usually lasting 3-6 months each in different areas, allowing me to develop into a well rounded engineer. On a day to day basis, I may either be office based or on-board of the submarine carrying out engineering activities.

Many of the skills I have learned have been related to engineering aptitude, however my skills which relate to being able to communicate effectively with people and relevant stakeholder has improved massively. As well as networking skills and having the confidence to reach out to other departments and companies to help solve an issue.

I have personally enjoyed the programme as apposed to going straight into university, the ability to earn a competitive wage whilst completing your desired qualifications is very good. The programme is suited well to someone who knows what they want from their career in life and are willing to work hard for it.

Well structured in terms of a plan is already set out for you when you join the scheme however if this dopes not suit you, you can essentially choose where you want to go, or what you want to do, so there is also good freedom to do thins you enjoy.

The support available to me is great and has always been of a high quality. All issues are resolved quickly and appropriately. You have support from early careers, your capability manager and your placement manager, so there is a wide variety of people to go to if you have an issue.

The training provider was happy to help with anyone regards they were willing to learn. Support was there to contact work with regards to allowing the students time off work to ensure they have studied enough for upcoming exams and to ensure that all coursework is completed my the deadline date.

Right now I am moving around the business in different areas so I am learning new things everyday and my qualification sometimes isn't directly related to my work, however when I settle into my exit-role I am sure it will become more relevant then when I get to actively pursue my niche.

Not that I am aware of massively... the early careers department runs stretch events which allow you to network with other individuals on the scheme and run mini projects, however I wouldn't consider these stretch events as extra curricular. Moving forward I would like to see sports teams, gyms, after work clubs and other social events at bae systems.

Yes

The scheme has proved to be of high quality to me so far and I can already see that if you put a good amount of effort in during your apprenticeship you will reap the rewards further down the line in your career. I have personally enjoyed the apprenticeship and if you are like minded and want a career in the engineering industry then bae might be a great fit for you.

Have confidence in your ability to get the desired role, and if you are worried about life inside BAE systems, I can assure you the support is there if needed. The qualifications and experience you gain whilst working here are fantastic and really complement your role effectively, ensuring you becoming a well rounded and educated individual.