Engineering Higher Apprentice Review

I am an engineering higher apprentice - on a day-to-day basis, I carry out practical and theory based work for my Level 2 PEO and HNC qualifications. This involves spending one day a week at CEMAST college where I spend time working towards my HNC. The 4 days I am not at college I spend working towards my Level 2 PEO.

I have definitely developed existing skills such as bench fitting skills in the workshop which I initially learnt from school and college, as well as become more aware of the health and safety aspects in our workplace from training and how to apply this knowledge to the work which we carry out.

The programme has been really enjoyable so far; the learning facilities are extremely good, the work has been quite challenging but rewarding and the instructors are very helpful if you're ever unsure of something or need some guidance. Overall, the programme has been better than I anticipated and am looking forward to the next steps in my career.

The programme is very well structured - it is always clear what work we should be doing. Currently for the Level 2 PEO qualification, we are working through one topic at a time for several months per topic. For example, we just finished bench fitting and are now working on engine maintenance.

My employer has regular interviews/updates with us on an individual basis and on a group basis with my other employees. This is to ensure we are all up-to-date with the work we are carrying out and are supported throughout the apprenticeship. It can also be an opportunity to address any concerns from our part or our employers part if there is any.

Both my instructors at work and my lecturers at college provide constant support and answer any questions I might have with regards to my qualifications in order for me to reach my full potential and get the best grades I can. I feel confident that I can do well because my training providers are there if I need guidance along the way.

As we are still learning skills for our Level 2 PEO qualification and are not on placement yet, I don't believe we have been able to fully apply our qualifications (including the HNC qualification we are working towards at college) to our job role at this point. I do feel confident that when we are in placements, these qualifications will reflect more as we will have opportunities to apply our knowledge.

Yes, we have STEM opportunities to get involved in with schools and colleges. However, I am currently involved in the Royal Navy Challenge as an addition to our Level 2 PEO qualification whilst we are in the training centre. This allows us to work better as a team with our employees and be creative and so has been very beneficial.

Yes

Since I have started, BAE Systems has been a great job to have. The job opportunities are very interesting and come with many great benefits such as achieving qualifications whilst working so continually learning, achieving support whilst doing this, using great facilities, and communicating and networking with other employees in the business.

I would ensure you read the job application thoroughly to make sure it is something you want to do and will enjoy. Also, when attending the interview, be professional and confident. The employer will want to get to know you as a person as well as your knowledge of the company and why you want to work for BAE Systems, so it is important to be yourself and honest.