Apprentice Project Manager Review

My day to day role is centred around Schedule Management, I use Primavera Software to monitor the Schedule of our Outputs. I also have to chase issues that I discover within the plan, I also take care of Reporting be it weekly or monthly. I also tackle ad hoc work for people who are unable to use the Primavera software.

I have learnt and developed plenty of new skills since I started my apprenticeship, BAE have their own set of Skills and Behaviours that are linked to every Apprentices Progression. I am in my second year and feel I am most strongly progressing my Leadership, Responsibility and day to day Professional skills.

I am really enjoying the challenge of working within such a difficult industry the work is very rewarding. I am also really enjoying the split between working on site and working from home for both the Business and the University study days. I also feel like I am receiving feedback regularly to assist me in my development.

The programme is extremely well structured and your progression is made extremely clear - You work through 5 placements over five years and attend University once a week with the end product being you receiving your degree. The organisational structure is extremely clear and you always know who to reach out to if you ever need to.

As a part of the apprenticeship there are plenty of options to reach out for support. I have my line manager for work related issues, my functional and developmental leads who can help with things related to the apprenticeship scheme. BAE also offer Occupational health assessment for the more physical or mental side of not just work but life. There are also plenty of University lecturers who can assist with the study aspect of the role.

We receive plenty of support in this regard. We had a session yesterday about assisting us with our next big assessment (the PMQ). There is also quite an open work environment within BAE where if something was not working regarding qualifications, we are able to address it within an open forum.

There is often a large overlap within my role where if I do not understand something in work there is a high chance it will be covered at some point by the University. This has happened early on in my first year when it came to managing projects namely float and things of that nature.

There are plenty of extra curricular activities to get involved with including stretch activities that can be used to further develop skills and behaviours outside of your placement. There is also a wide array of activities to do like rock climbing or even a hiking club. There are also plenty of opportunities to engage in socials with my apprentice intake.

Yes

They are a great employer who provide great jobs and have even provided me with the opportunity of receiving a degree which is something I never thought possible personally. They also offer a vast amount of benefits including an amazing pension plan and even shares options. They also care about personal wellbeing be it physical or mental.

I would recommend learning a little bit about the wider business - who provides the contracts we work on and specifically for Project Management learning the fundamentals for potential interviews (time cost and quality). Another tip is always being ready to learn and admit you are struggling - being open and honest is a big part of the environment here.