Degree Apprentice - Project Manager Review

Role can differ massively on a day to day basis particularly when changing teams. We do annual placements so get to be in several teams throughout the business during our apprenticeship. Currently i work closely with engineers to support them in the delivery of their systems. I project manage their delivery and help them understand where they are in comparison to Cost/Quality/scope/Time etc.

I have learnt many new skills during my time on the apprenticeship, this vary hugely from simple Microsoft excel, PowerPoint and word skills to softer skills of people management as well as project management skills. The benefit of an integrated degree apprenticeship is that the knowledge learnt while studying at university can be applied during my day to day role.

I thoroughly enjoy the degree apprenticeship program, at times i have found it more challenging due to the culture of some of the teams i have worked in. Often the teams which are quite manufacturing based are somewhat stuck in their ways and don't see the benefit of project management however the team i am currently in exceed my expectations of working within BAE and i hope to have a long career within the team.

I have been somewhat disappointed in the structure of the programme and the communication. Early in the degree apprenticeship it became very apparent that the scheme had changed from the previous year and our early careers team didn't know exactly how the course would be throughout the programme. However i do feel communication and openness has improved and as we are soon to be moving into our final year of studies we are given a lot of support towards the completion of the degree.

My employer gives plenty of support and time to complete my students. My current line manager doesn't understand the programme of degree apprenticeship but is very keen to learn and understand. We have all been offered a mentor within the business and there are many people willing to guide us as we are early in our career.

The difference between tutors and their areas of expertise can often be vast, and i think this has been a more significant challenge since the majority of our study time has been home based due to Covid-19. However all tutors are very approachable and will provide additional guidance when required.

I feel like the qualification we are completing directly links to the work in our role. Often i have been able to apply parts of the course back into the work place and even on some occasions bring learning into the team of other ways to do things from the training i have received.

There are many extra curricular activities to get involved in from "stretch" activities which are events which can develop skills for your apprenticeship. Some times these involve working with local schools to provide activities for school children to get them interested in STEM subjects. There are also some sports teams which people can choose to engage in. And a christmas social with fellow apprentices each year.

Yes

The work life balance with BAE is greater than i have experienced elsewhere even though i have much responsibilities including completing a degree. I feel valued as an employee and feel like this course develops many of my skills. I feel by the end of this Programme i will be a very well rounded project manager which adequate professional qualifications to support as well.

The interviewer won't directly see your application so ensure to repeat things which are worthwhile to the interviewer. During the assessment day there will be group tasks, ensure you are adequately involved but also considering other peoples opinions and listening. Ask plenty of questions to understand what will be required of you. Attend induction week and take as much away from it as possible, there is a lot of worthwhile advice and opportunity to make friends.