Business Apprentice Review

My role/apprenticeship includes 4 placements. My first 2 placements and final placement were in the Procurement function where I have placed purchase orders, completed purchase order amendments, managed invoices and ensured order book trackers were kept topical. My 3rd placement was in the Project Management function where I was the lead of a Facilities Improvement Project; capturing requirements and managing priorities; ensured budget allocation control across the work scope.

I have learnt and developed many skills throughout this apprenticeship. My communication and professional skills are probably the main skills that I have developed; communicating both verbally and written with different stakeholders have really improved my confidence with both internal and external stakeholders. The new skills I have learnt are mostly IT skills, this scheme has enabled me to learn new skills through both placement work and Training Courses provided to apprentices.

This scheme is extremely enjoyable, I have had the opportunity to work with multiple teams and learn the meaning of company culture. It has exceeded all of my expectations as everyone in the company is extremely supportive and helpful. I have also had the opportunity to attend executive forums and the Outward Bound Teamworking Engagement.

The induction I received for this scheme was excellent, the company covered all areas, from Health and Safety to the Company's aims and values. Throughout the scheme I have also completed multiple training courses; these had varied from Excel Spreadsheet Top Tips to specific system training. However, during my function swap in my 3rd placement there were some technical issues that prevented me from working to my full potential (e.g. site access and other security accesses).

This company has really supported me throughout the apprenticeship scheme, I feel I have been well placed in all of my roles/placements and feel they ensure stability in all the placements. During our induction and many times after we have been made aware of the guidance and support in place not only regarding work but also on a personal level.

Our training providers ensure we all have the appropriate time to complete our assignments and other tasks relating to the apprenticeship scheme. We all have a tutor/advisor who we can seek advice/support from regarding any of our scheme work. We have also completed multiple College Days, days that our allocated for learning a specific topic and presenting the information learnt that day.

I feel all the work and technical learning I do on the assigned college days really helps me to understand the work and tasks I'm given in the placement. The behaviours we learn about on the scheme also help me within the roles as it helps me to develop them and understand their importance in the workplace.

I believe there are football teams and cycling/running groups in the workplace but I'm unsure about other sports. I was involved in the BMA Buzz in the first year on the scheme; this is an article/magazine for the BMA apprentices' where we gather information from around the business about subject that may benefit or intrigue the apprentices'.

Yes

BAE Systems is an exceptional company to work for, I feel extremely supported when I'm working here, the community and culture is well thought out and everyone is valued. There are also multiple benefits to working in this company including hybrid working, flexible working and IT allocation. I would 100% recommend BAES to a friend.

I would suggest that anyone applying for BAE Systems should research the company and ensure they are aware of its values, aims and objectives. Research the different sectors and areas in which you would like to work. Look into the opportunities available for the career path you would like to take.