Aircraft Fitter Review

As a first year advanced apprentice, we currently work in different sections, which can be between 3 and 12 weeks each. These can vary from Business Improvement Techniques, where problem-solving skills are learnt and practised, to Fitting Section, where hands-on metalworking skills are developed. The working day starts with a Daily Start Up Meeting (DSUM) where attendance is recorded and Safety, Health and Environment (SHE) points are raised and recorded. From here, it is on to working in whichever section you are currently assigned to, working on whatever projects have been set by your assessor.

I previously had no experience of metalwork or working with carbon fibre, and I have since learnt how to create functional aircraft panels from bare materials, and learnt how to create sheets of carbon fibre for working out of bare sheets of carbon fibre weave. My knowledge of health and safety has also been improved, as have my problem-solving skills and knowledge of CAD.

My programme has been everything I hoped and expected it would be. I love creating finished pieces from sheet metal using hand tools and air-powered tools, and the expert help and support offered by our numerous instructors is second to none. I wake up every morning actively looking forward to going to work.

All apprentices are split up into separate groups, consisting of apprentices who are on the same or similar pathway of the apprenticeship programme. Each group has a set timetable at the beginning of the year, but certain issues occurring forced these timetables to be amended. This doesn't really affect us, as we will still be performing the mandatory courses, just not at the time that was initially set.

If any of us are struggling with any issue whatsoever, whether it is work related or not, there is always somebody available to help. There is a safeguarding area for apprentices to use if they so wish, and support is offered to everybody from the assessors to the early careers team.

Our tutors from our training provider can support us outside of college hours via a learning platform website. Help and support is also available not only during college lessons, but whenever we see our tutors in the Academy. Sample online tests are also provided for us to complete in order to aid our learning.

The knowledge that we gain through our tutors from our training provider will prove invaluable not only during our apprenticeship, but in the business after our apprenticeship is complete. The qualifications that we gain as a result of this will aid our product knowledge and problem solving skills in years to come.

There are a great deal of extra curricular activities to get involved in at work, many of which are sent to you via your work email. These include charity fundraisers, work and help in the community, sporting events, work related events and competitions, exchange programmes with other countries and team bonding exercises.

Yes

I have already recommended BAE Systems to several friends as I thoroughly enjoy my time working here and, as an apprentice, I feel that the company value me and look after me, and I also believe that we are being provided with the best possible training, as this is in the company's best interests.

I have already recommended BAE Systems to several friends as I thoroughly enjoy my time working here and, as an apprentice, I feel that the company value me and look after me, and I also believe that we are being provided with the best possible training, as this is in the company's best interests.

I have already recommended BAE Systems to several friends as I thoroughly enjoy my time working here and, as an apprentice, I feel that the company value me and look after me, and I also believe that we are being provided with the best possible training, as this is in the company's best interests.

Take your time when filling out the application form, and be as thorough as possible. Ensure that you are ready to adopt a strong working ethic from day one, as this will stand you in good stead and increase your probability of being in-demand come the end of your apprenticeship.