Finance Apprentice Review

On the scheme, we move roles on a yearly basis. Currently, I am in a Cost Estimating role and I am involved in pricing up work for potential bids, this information then goes to the customer to see if it is a suitable price.

My presentation skills, IT abilities and financial knowledge have all increased massively since being on the scheme in addition to an improvement in softer skills such as confidence, time management and team working.

Being able to move to a different placement on a yearly rotation has given me a greater understanding of the different roles in finance and allows me to see where I fit best. .The culture at BAE is also a huge positive, there is always someone around to help.

There is a good amount of support with studying, we are given time off work to attend studying sessions, revise and sit the exam. There is also sufficient training in each role, and managers are happy to adapt their approach to suit each apprentice.

The managers in each role have always been very supportive, for any issues both inside and outside of work. Managers are always on hand to help out with any workload issues, whether there is too much or too little work.

With training provider, there are plenty of opportunities to ask questions in the live studying sessions and there is also an option to contact a tutor via email / phone call outside of the sessions and they usually respond with an answer to the query within 5 hours.

There are a small number of links between studying and the day-to-day role, and it can be useful to see the studying material in the real world. However, my current role doesn't link too well to the CIMA qualification.

At BAE Systems each team/function goes out for a Christmas meal, paid for by the company, and it is always a highlight of the year! Some teams within finance also go on smaller social events and their are options to be involved in site activities such as yoga.

Yes

The culture at BAE is a huge selling point, everyone is always willing to help and want to see you grow in your development. The managers have always been very understanding, responsive to feedback and just want to help you develop further.

If you can, make an effort to really get to know people. Not only will it make working at BAE Systems more enjoyable, but it will really help to excel you in your career as everyone can always offer different advice.