Software Engineer Review

My role consists of developing software to support the aerospace industry, covering all aspects of the software lifecycle, including programming, testing and debugging. I spend 3 days a week working in a team within the company on a specific project, and 2 days a week on university and diploma work which are both required to pass the apprenticeship.

I have learnt how to code in new languages, including Java and C++, and the correct procedure for running software tests, at least within BAE. I have developed my networking and communication skills from working in a team and them being able to support me if I run into any difficulties.

I enjoy my programme, however some days on placement can be quite slow if there is an issue that prevents us from working or if there is simply no work to do. I have had weeks before where there has been no work for me and I have ended up just completing university work instead, but when there is work for me I enjoy it.

My placements so far have felt fairly well structured, apart from the previously mentioned days of no work. We have daily morning meetings to keep track of everyone's progress, and I know who to talk to if I require support with my work. The university work and block release periods feel very well organised, as we always know what lectures we have and the travel arrangements for getting to UCLan prior to the week. The diploma feels a lot less well organised than the other two parts of the apprenticeship, with little guidance provided and no real deadlines set for any modules.

If I ask for it, I will always receive support from people within my teams and my skills coach for the diploma. It is rare that anyone asks how I am getting on outside of the morning meetings unless I make contact, but this is most likely because everyone has their own work to get on with. When I receive support, it is always very useful and insightful.

We have ways of contacting our university lecturers at any time, through email or Microsoft Teams, so if we are working on an assignment we are able to ask for support/guidance, rather than waiting to see them in person on one of the block release windows. They have always been quick to respond and very helpful when I have asked questions in the past.

There are modules that we undertake at university that I immediately see translating into our work, such as the programming modules, but, at least in the first year, there are also some modules that I don't really see how they correlate, such as networking. However, I understand it is important to understand different aspects of IT, and the modules that directly link to my role are very beneficial. I have also found that the link goes both ways, and placement work has helped improve my university work.

There hasn't been any social events organised by BAE themselves, however the apprentices in the years above occasionally organise meet-ups or days out for those based in and around Yeovil. It would be nice if the company could organise more social/networking events for apprentices, as moving to a new area for a new job where you don't know anyone is quite intimidating.

Yes

The company offer a competitive salary for apprentices, and the scheme is such a fantastic opportunity, receiving 4 years of work experience, a degree and a diploma upon completion, and getting your university fees covered, I would recommend it to anyone who doesn't necessarily want to go to university but still wants to further their career prospects.

Make sure you are passionate about what the company is involved in and know what kind of work your role will consist of. Do some research prior to applying on the company and on the type of role you're applying for so that you have some topics to discuss and questions to ask in your interviews.