Advanced Technical Apprentice Review

As an technician apprentice, I receive specialised and engineering training for a variety of different applications - from CAD 3D design to Steel and Aluminium Fitting work. Along side my everyday training, I also attend 1 work-day’s worth of college lectures, in which I carry out assignments which go towards my final grade for my Level 3 Advanced Engineering and Manufacturing Diploma. From our second year onwards, we move out of the training facility and are stationed in 7 different placements over the course of 2-3 years within different departments in the business.

While working at BAE Systems, I have developed a variety of skills that I did not have prior to the apprenticeship, as well as further expanding upon skills I already had. Some of these skills are practical based, built upon while working in an engineering environment, such as on a workshop floor. Other skills include vital life skills such as confidence, public speaking, time keeping, and organisational.

I absolutely love the programme I am working within, and enjoy everything I do within my apprenticeship. I enjoy the vast variety of work that I carry out in my different job roles. I greatly appreciate the nature of the work, meaning that I do not get bored being stuck in one single work environment that I may not enjoy as much as another.

The apprenticeship programme that I work within is fairly well organised, considering the size and cohort numbers each year. Furthermore, the training we receive within our time in the role seems to run fairly smoothly, and sticks to a well laid-out curriculum which ensures that we meet all the required points for our qualifications.

As An apprentice, I receive plenty of help and support from my superiors and employers, both on a baseline level, and as well as any extra support I may require or request during my time. It is a very inclusive and welcoming culture, and employees are always encouraged to ask questions when necessary.

When working towards our qualifications, there is a certain extent to which we are required to find answers to questions and problems on our own when carrying out our assignment work toward our grade. However, questions are still welcomed during class time while covering the curriculum, and training providers will answer any questions they can.

Both while during my training, and during my work placements within my role, I have found that a lot of the knowledge I receive from my qualification can be greatly beneficial. As I work within engineering environments, I find my engineering qualification helpful as it helps me with the theory side of my work, and also improves my timekeeping.

During my time within my role at BAE Systems, I have been able to get involved in a wide variety of different extra-curricular opportunities. For example, I have become an editor for our apprentice website, I have entered into the World Skills Competition for CAD, I have applied to become a STEM Ambassador, as well as a variety of networking opportunities with other employees.

Yes

I would absolutely recommend BAE Systems to a friend, or any other like-minded person that takes an interest in engineering and manufacturing. The apprenticeship has provided a huge variety of opportunities to learn and expand my career, while immersing myself in a practical and fun environment. I have no regrets about applying for this role within BAE Systems.

For anyone wanting to apply, I would strongly recommend that you go for it and give it your all. BAE Systems is looking for devoted, positive young people as potential apprentices. In order to help you in your application, I would recommend you take place in voluntary or out-of-school/work hobbies and activities which prove your passion. Taking place in some sort of STEM-based activities is also extremely beneficial and j would highly recommend getting involved before applying.