Project Management Apprentice Review

My current placement involves working with the wider team in authorising work and delivering projects successfully in terms of budget, schedule, scope and quality. I am involved in the regular effective and consistent reporting on performance and work to ensure that effective measures are in place regarding the tracking of work progress. The reviewing of spend data in alignment with budget and assumptions made is also an area in which I support the team.

I have learnt a lot in a short space of time since starting my apprenticeship in Project Management with BAE Systems. Learning and becoming familiar with BAE Systems' policies and processes has provided me with a basis of the fundamental skills required to be an effective project manager. I have also built on my IT skills, especially the use of Microsoft Excel, which I am much more proficient in now compared with when I started.

I enjoy the Degree Apprenticeship very much as it is in an interesting field and I am constantly learning new things. Both the placement and university work is challenging but rewarding, and I like the contrast from an office environment to the classroom and how the programme allows me to experience both.

The programme is very well structured; there are five 12 month placements across the five year duration, and the university schedule is such that each year remains relevant and interesting. It is clear that a lot of value is placed on the scheme and those who are enrolled onto it.

The support that is available is very extensive and there is a helpline available 24/7. on a more programme-level, the support is equally as good, with placement line managers and especially scheme managers being approachable and happy and willing to assist with any issues that you may have about anything related to work or indeed outside of work.

The support through college is good. All tutors are approachable and offer support when not at college through email also. The programme leads are also very involved with the college process and conscious that everyone is coping/getting on okay. I am fortunate that my current placement manager came through the programme I am currently on also, so he is able to offer valuable support regarding college should I need it.

Despite only starting the programme four months ago, I have already been able to use things that I have picked up in my studies of the degree to improve aspects of my role. Similarly, aspects of the role have provided me with a contextual understanding of some of the things I have been doing at college to work towards my degree and therefore give me a better overall understanding of the topic in question.

There have been multiple things organised that I have attended, from workshops to seminars and masterclasses. There has been opportunity to get involved with sporting events though not directly through the company, however there are charity sporting events coming up in the near future that I plan to get involved with. I am also a member of the national apprenticeship council, representing my programme at multiple meetings across the country every year.

Yes

It is a globally recognised company that operates on a huge scale, so it is exciting knowing that you are part of an organisation such as BAE Systems. Furthermore, the prospects for career development are very good and the opportunity to travel for work is also an attractive aspect to working for the company.

Research all the different roles you are thinking of applying to and try to think where they could take you in the future. When applying, ensure that you are familiar with the Company's values and demonstrate this in the use of examples of previous experiences that you will be asked to highlight.