Apprentice Laminator Review

During my time at BAE Systems, I have broadened both my knowledge and skills in many ways. It has helped me become more confident, taught me how to handle myself in front of different people, like customers, managers and work colleagues. I have also begun paving the steps for a good life long career.

I have learnt a lot of new skills, like how to repair boats, like structural and visual imperfections. I have learnt how to create new items from moulds and how to make moulds. I have also learnt a lot of different workshop skills such as health and safety requirements, other colleagues jobs and have an idea how they are done and be able to help a lot of people.

I really enjoy the programme as it has allowed me to experience what working for a big company is like, as well as build on my skills and knowledge whilst being paid for it. It also has an endless amount of training, growth and advances in your career.

Our college was a bit of a challenge at first, but due to it not being able to find a course for some time. BAEs structure has been very good, but the college has been more of a challenge.

From my employer I receive a lot of support. Whether this be to support us with our home life, work life and problems, training and concerns regarding the college and anything in between. They are very approachable when it comes to issues and questions and I feel like I could ask them for advice on anything and it will be kept confidential.

The support we are given is good. They have recently had a change in instructors and teachers for our training which has really benefited us as we are supported a lot better then with our old teacher. During my time at college, my assessor has kept on track with my progress.

I feel like the qualification I am working on at college is good but is hard to relate at work. Our work is fiberglass powerboat work but the course we are taught at Marchwood leans towards wooden sailing boats. The principles are good to know and it has definitely helped broaden my knowledge and be able to see my work in a better way.

At work, there are some activities that I take part in. A colleague of mine created a group and organised a regular football game every Friday. We also plan activities like going to the pub, out for dinner and similar things for occasions like Christmas, new years, if anyone is leaving and anything similar.

Yes

I would recommend BAE to my friends because it has allowed me to build on my skills, and myself as a person over the years. They make sure you are constantly challenged and dealing with real world problems. They support you very well and there are lots of chances for training. It also allows them to build a life long career if they want it.

Advice I would give to someone applying for the BAE Systems Apprenticeship is to familiarise themselves with the role they are applying for, make sure they know about BAE as a company and make sure to be truthful during interviews. Make sure that you are willing to work hard and are willing to work under pressure when needed.