Aerospace Engineer Review

A variety of placements within different areas of the air sector give a good range of experience within the first 3 years, allowing an informed decision of what to do for the final 2 years. Roles include shadowing Line Managers to get an understanding of the business.

Throughout the apprenticeship, both hard and soft skills are developed through Placement work and University work. A variety of mandated training modules and courses develops the individual as an engineer allowing them to thrive in the future. Many opportunities for networking allow personal networks to be developed which will be of benefit in the future career.

I thoroughly enjoy the wide range of tasks I have been presented with on my apprenticeship so far, allowing academic work to be applied in the workplace. Tasks that are set are both challenging and achievable which allows my motivation to be high at all times.

Overall, the programme is very well organised, although some communication issues can arise between the Early Career's team and the Placement Teams with regards to training and access required. Despite this, the apprenticeship has run smoothly from start to present and this is very appealing to myself.

Support is provided in a variety of instances, ranging from placement manager support to mental health and wellbeing support through a variety of channels. This ensures that morale is kept high and the stresses of work and university are controlled. Although independent work is promoted, for personal development, support is required whenever necessary and there is 'no such thing as a silly question'.

Before remote learning, the support my University was exceptional. Since learning has changed to being virtual, the support is more difficult to access, but this is expected due to the lack of physical conversation. The support is provided and tutors are available, but this feels more of a burden to access than if we were in person.

Throughout my variety of placements so far, I have been able to apply my academic knowledge to good effect. Without this learning, I would have had great difficulty completing some tasks I have been set while at work. This would therefore reduce my competency against the further Level 4 Diploma that is completed as a result of acement work.

Both before and after COVID 19, there are numerous social events available, ranging from webinars, virtual coffee meetings and masterclass sessions provided. This enables our skills and knowledge to develop further outside of the placement work and ensures we can access any information we require.

Yes

While working at BAE Systems, there are many opportunities for progression following the apprenticeship. In addition, during the apprenticeship an extremely competitive salary is earnt as well as the degree being paid for. BAE Systems is a leading provider of apprenticeship in various forms and academic levels ensuring they are accessible by everyone.

A variety of opportunities will be given to you throughout your time at BAE, and these should be taken wherever possible. They will help to develop skills and knowledge further than any placement work can. This includes STEM events masterclasses etc.