Supply Chain Apprentice Review

During the 3 year scheme I am required to rotate around different areas/teams within the supply chain department, spending 3-6months with each one. You are set objectives at the start of each placement which will be specific to the team you are currently in and you work towards completing these. The work varies but can include monitoring and recording supplier performance, managing and maintaining purchase orders, negotiating prices with suppliers etc.

I have learned a lot about to end to end procurement and supply chain as well as specific training on the systems used by my workplace. I have also been put through courses on excel as a lot of the day to day job involves analysing data. The job itself greatly improves communication skills and confidence.

I have really enjoyed my programme so far. Every placement has offered me a different side to the supply chain department and learning from people who have been in the job for a number of years has been so beneficial. The early careers community you become apart of is very helpful as everyone is going through the same process.

From my experience the structure was still being defined as I joined as this is a fairly new scheme to my site in BAE. Now that the structure has been put in place, it is well organised and allows you to see all the teams you are intended to spend time with over the 3 years. Due to not having an official college day in year 1 we are also allocated 5 hours per week to complete modules which is great.

The people I have been in teams with have been very supportive and always willing to help when I have any queries or want to learn more about any processes. I have really been made to feel like no question is a silly question. There is also support available from other apprentices in the years above who have gone through the same process as you.

As we do not have an official college day for year 1 we have limited contact with our training provider, normally just writing up modules then a call to catch up on whether you have passed each one. However if needed, the assessor was always available by email/phone. In year 2 we do CIPS where we have 2 days of workshops before each exam so it is mainly self study for this element.

In year 1 the SVQ qualification helps build a portfolio of knowledge you have gained. Knowledge I have picked up in my work life has transferred through to my understanding of the modules in CIPS in year 2. The entry level for CIPS is very basic and gives a good grounding for a procurement role.

There is the opportunity to become a STEM ambassador and get involved in STEM activities schools and colleges. There are also stretch assignments available if you want to get involved in extra curricular work that involves working with other functions. I know there is also a range of clubs you can join.

Yes

I have thoroughly enjoyed my programme so far and have been given great opportunities like travelling to visit suppliers. My experience with my peers has also been great as everyone is there to help and support you. I think the apprenticeship route is a great alternative to University as the learning aspect is still there.

Research BAE and be clear why you want to work there as well as researching the scheme you are applying for and making sure it is the right fit for you. Try and be confident and sell yourself whilst applying. If you have the chance, attend any open events/online talks about the apprenticeship schemes and ask any questions you have.