Engineering Apprentice Review

During a typical day as an apprentice I shadow a skilled engineer whilst they show me the ropes and observe me completing the job to the required standards. This enables me to be shown how the job is done, and then with careful supervision I can be observed to ensure I have learnt and paid attention when being taught.

Over the 3 years the vast amount of skills I have gained has really shown me how well apprenticeships work. I had never touched a machine before working here, now I am fully competent at producing components to tight tolerances. Each and every day is a learning day where either I learn a new skill or perfect skills I already possess.

Each day I learnt something new which really helped me to stay focused and enjoy everyday of my apprenticeship. The progress made and the qualifications gained over the years will help me for the rest of my working life. I would recommend apprenticeships to anyone I know as I believe they are the best way to learn.

I found the programme to be a challenge but extremely rewarding at the same time. It was planned well without any major hiccups which ensured all coursework and relevant documents were completed and submitted on time. I couldn't of asked for more from my employer and believe they provide some of the best training in the world.

My employer is extremely considerate when it comes to my well being and I feel at ease knowing if I needed extra support they would be there to help every step of the way. If my employer cannot directly assist me they have other companies that can offer support on behalf of the company.

Extra classes are always available as well as an online service in which I can message my tutors at the weekends if I am struggling with work required for the coming week. This enabled me to feel at ease and that if I ever needed additional support all I had to do is ask.

Without the training provided alongside my qualification I would not be able to do the job I have now completed into, this is a key factor to apprenticeships working alongside skilled engineers to ensure they observe you performing the job at hand, not everything can be learnt in the classroom.

There has been many different challenges and activities available to me during my time as an apprentice, these include The Princes Trust, Outward Bound, World Skills and The German Exchange. These extra-curricular activities allow people to see how other companies succeed and how to use everyday life skills in work.

Yes

BAE Systems has surpassed every expectation I had and has really opened my eyes to an employer who not only cares for just making money, they look after their employees which shows as people are happier and eager to perform well at work. BAE Systems supports any decision you make in life and if they can help in any way possible; they will.

The main advice I would give to someone applying for BAE Systems is to believe in yourself and try your hardest. BAE strives themselves on their employees and believes as long as you show willingness to learn and can work great as part of a team everyone can work together to ensure BAE remains one of the biggest engineering companies in the world.