Degree Apprentice Review

The day-to-day work varies largely between different placements. Some placements involve regular engagement with the build however others are strictly office based with lots of time spent reading and reviewing documents. Most teams have meetings either daily or every other day to review progress towards on-going tasks. Some days are busy with back to back meetings whereas others are spent watching the clock and not doing a whole lot.

Thus far in my apprenticeship my skills have not been stretched beyond what I had already gained through high school and sixth form. There have been no practical skills gained from my apprenticeship as it is largely office based. I use software that I would not have otherwise used, however, this is not at an in-depth skill level.

My programme is enjoyable for the social aspect, I have made many friends in the business and this is largely echoed in the fact that many of the people that I went to school with now work in the business. Beyond that, the work is rarely enjoyable and most tasks feel like a chore to complete.

My programme is very well structured - my placements are mapped out for the next 3 years and there are regular reviews to ensure that competencies are being reached throughout the whole programme. We have a workbook to document what we do in each of our placements and must update this after each placement.

My employer offers lots of support particularly in terms of wellbeing and safeguarding. There is a clear emphasis on the importance of mental health and there are numerous people to turn to if you are ever struggling. The Employee Assistance Programme offers a range of support for both you and your immediate family.

Blackpool and the fylde college provide lots of support when it comes to working towards our qualifications. They were very quick to adapt to online lectures when we were locked down back in march 2020. The college is very understanding whenever there are any concerns or queries regarding assignments or exam revision.

The qualification I am studying towards is a Level 6 Nuclear Engineering degree. the knowledge gained is echoed in many roles within the nuclear engineering sector. Some modules learned in college are not inherently needed within regular day-to-day working yet the critical thinking/problem solving skills learned in these modules may prove useful.

since covid there have been no extra-curricular activities, however, in pre-covid times there were nights out with other apprentices from a range of functions and cohort groups. Additionally, some placement teams organise nights out for occasions like Christmas. There are limited extra-curricular activities outside of nights out - a few football teams but that's about it.

Yes

BAE systems apprenticeships are a good option for school leavers who aren't particularly interested in completing a levels or going to university. For college students, BAE systems is an easier way to achieve a degree vs going to university, with the benefit of getting paid while studying. However, if you are looking to be stretched to your true capabilities, don't come here

Take time when writing your application - ensure it showcases examples within your answer to each question and link it back to why you are the best candidate. If you get to the interview stage, practice answering generic interview questions out-loud to someone you aren't totally comfortable around - i.e. not with your parents as this will mimic a real interview scenario.