Integrated Combat Systems apprentice Review

Currently I am at Furness College where I am completing a Manufacturing Engineer qualification which consists of engineering maths, Mechanical Principles, engineering drawing, mechanical workshop, electrical workshop, Fabrication and welding as well as doing health and safety. I receive assignments as well as UPKs for each subject which are knowledge questions.

This programme has allowed me to not only refresh my mind on my previous engineering experience but it has also allowed me to gain additional knowledge and skills as every teacher has different methods. It has also allowed me to learn more about my job and the company I work for.

I enjoy it a fair amount I've been to college before and having to go back again has been a bit of a struggle and I've had to adapt but it's only for a short period of time and then I get to properly start training for my job role so overall I am enjoying it.

Very well structured as I know where I need to be and what I need to do which helps in terms of being able to crack on without having to chase tutors or line managers around to ask them questions and in terms of organisation it's very clear and precise.

I receive a lot of support we have skills coaches who deal with us as well as having our future line managers coming in and making sure we are okay and sorting out for us to go on courses or go on site and have site tours as well as having staff at the college who have a very hands on role with all of us.

We are given all the right tools and information in order to complete the apprenticeship/ qualification to a high standard as well as giving opportunities to progress onto HNCs and degree apprenticeships to further our skills and knowledge as well as having highly trained tutors to help us reach these opportunities.

Personally I feel like so far I haven't actually had any training for my job role but that is more of the job training and is something specific to the company rather than the training providers but in terms of the college course it is helping a lot to perform better.

There are a lot of activities such as apprentice councils, STEM activities and courses which you can become apart of such as going into schools and talking to pupils about the company and your job role. I know that the different departments also organise work events to have a bit more of a social gathering to get to know eachother.

Yes

BAE is a large company and have a lot to do with local communities such as funding Furness college and employing a high amount of local people to work for the company they also do a lot for young people wanting to start their careers which good pay and a lot of benefits.

I would advise them to keep their heads down and crack on with the work and complete it to the highest of their abilities as it makes them stand out if they do well I would also say to relax and try not to be anxious about the interviews or when they start as they'll do great.