Apprentice Review

This is an Engineering Technician Apprenticeship which entails the use of 3D modelling software such as CATIA, Autodesk Inventor etc to model parts for aircraft. Use of spread sheet software to manipulate and project data sets. Range of work for a technician can be extremely varied and can range from design to testing and many more in between. Have also studied other areas of aerospace engineering such as hand fitting- machining, electrical and tool making.

We have learnt a number of hand fitting techniques used in aviation engineering. We have also learned basic skills in CNC Machining (lathes and millers) and domestic wiring skills. We attended a group bonding session for a week within the first few weeks fo starting work where we focused largely on improving/developing communication, teamwork and leadership skills. In addition to these we are also studying at college and as a result gaining knowledge in subject areas related to aerospace engineering such as mathematics, health and safety, mechanicakl principles etc.

I genuinely love my job, this is the first job role I have ever held where I actually look forward to going to work. Obviously there are areas of the apprenticeship where there is room for improvement but by and large the quality of training you receive, the amount of support available to you and the career opportunities upon successful completion of the apprenticeship are second to none. The work is also extremely interesting and the need for accuracy keeps you focused.

As previously stated, by and large the program is very well run. I appreciate that there are a lot of apprentices to manage, many of whom are based across different buildings/sites and some of whom work on secret projects which could make the administration of the program difficult. However, this should be something the business is well used to by now and although we do receive workshops educating us on any developments/changes to the apprenticeship, for our year in particular, there haver been a lot of grey areas coming into second year which apprentices aren't sure of. The assessors do their utmost to ensure you hit all necessary NVQ criteria which is excellent.

The level of support from BAE is excellent. We have a wide range of resources available to us. The company gets tutors in to teach us, on site, in a state of the art facility. We have experienced assessors who are always there if you need a quick chat. You also gain the opportunity to work alongside qualified engineers who will help and guide you as you complete your studies alongside work placements. Managers are very understanding of the pressures of working fulltime and studying and as a result it is often possible to gain day release from your role to go and complete any work you may be falling behind on providing it is necessary.

Any questions or issues we have with any of the college work can be discussed with our tutors in class. In addition to this, you may also grab the tutors as they are out and about during days in which you are not in college. Furthermore the tutors also host tutorials after work which anyone is able to attend and in which you can raise issues/concerns you are having. Finally we have a BAE point of contact for any college concerns which allows us to liaise with BAE staff as well as external training providers if you wish.

The subject matter contained within the NVQ is directly applicable to the work you perform on a day to day basis. As a result of this your on the job learning benefits your qualification and your studying for the qualification benefits your day to day working. Without studying the subjects I have been doing for the past 2 years I wouldn't have been able to perform in my current role. BAE ensure everyone has English and Maths Level 2 prior to starting the apprenticeship proper.

There are a plethora of activities for apprentices to get involved in. From open events to business expos, sports tournaments to volunteering days and many more. You are encouraged to do extra curricular activities as much as possible (so long as it doesn't hinder your work) and many of these opportunities are sent to us from BAE rather than us having to go out and source them ourselves.

Yes

Excellent opportunity. If you want to earn while you learn, study an interesting subject and potentially see the world and get paid to do so then I would recommend BAE Systems. The number of applicants the scheme receives year on year is a strong indicator of just how good this scheme is.

Keep your head down, complete college work in a timely manner as there is a lot of NVQ paperwork you need to complete regarding on the job tasks/training/development and you could leave yourself struggling for time. Ask for help when you need it, own up to any mistakes as its better in the long run no matter how serious it may be. Take advantage of as many opportunities as you can whilst you're here.