logistics apprentice Review

During my second placement I was located in the DTO store. One of the tasks was to answer the store hatch when employees rang the bell for help. I was expected to collect what they required from the store. It was important that I asked the person a couple of questions such as: what is their name, which boat the item was needed for, and what TP.

Since I began my apprenticeship I have learnt many new skills.  Within my first few weeks I undertook Fork Lift Truck training, which I passed both the theory and practical elements of the course.  I have become familiar with the Company SAP purchasing system, where I am able to book in deliveries that arrive at the site and also various other transactions within the system.  I believe my communication skills have improved as I am gaining more confidence working with colleagues and not afraid to ask for advice when required.

I am really enjoying my apprenticeship.  I am enjoying working with experienced staff in order to gain knowledge of the role.  Gaining workplace experience is helping to understand how the business works and at the same time I am improving my social skills.  Changing departments every few weeks gives me chance to work on different things and work with different people.

The programme is well organised/structured.  I understand what is expected of me and what placements I am expected to undertake.  I have been given a timetable of my placements so I am aware of when I move on.  I attend college once a week which is organised and specific to my role.  I am in regular contact with my apprentice manager where my progress is recorded.

I feel I am very supported by my employer.  I have regular meetings with my placement manager and course mentor, to ensure I am keeping up with all my learning and to discuss my progress.  If I have any issues I know who I would need to contact and that I would be taken seriously and listened to.

I attend college once a week where I am working towards my Logistics/Warehouse apprentice qualification.  I enjoy college and believe the training provider supports me with my work.  I have had some tests which I have passed.  Overall the support I receive both by the Company and the training provider is very good.

The work I am doing while at college is applicable to what I am doing at work, so when I am in my placements I do benefit from what I have learnt at college.  It helps me perform my job better as I understand the reasons for doing a piece of work and why it needs to be completed well

In December 2021 I took part in the apprenticeship Outward Bound course in Eskdale, in the Lake District to take part in outdoor activities alongside other apprentices who work within BAE Submarines.  This helped with my team building and communication skills.  It gave me the opportunity to meet people working in other areas of the business.  Often the Logistics apprentices meet for work and college meetings.

Yes

Yes definitely, I have enjoyed my first 6 months working in BAE.  I enjoy learning the practical skills as well as attending college to earn a qualification.  BAE is helping me to understand how a business works and I feel I am gaining valuable knowledge and skills to help me progress in my future career.  Working as an apprentice in BAE enables me to earn money as I gain qualifications

I would recommend to do research about the Company and choose an apprenticeship course that suits them.  For example, if someone is more hands-on to select a course which is more mechanical or shop floor based instead of being in an office.  I would advise others to be enthusiastic if they were having an interview and provide examples of situations (team building, leadership, problem solving etc).