Aspiring Leader Review

I have different placements around business varying from 4-8 months long. During these placements I gain insight into the business and that specific business area. So far I have worked within the engineering and planning department where I analysed engineers exam results. I then moved into the operation as a check in agent.

I have developed my operational skills, by developing my customer service skills and also learning more about aviation in general. I have learnt about stakeholder management and how to manage a project during my time in Engineering and planning. I have also gained good insight into the businesses revenue streams through the operation.

I have experience outside of this programme, so it has been a slow start for me in my apprenticeship. So far I have enjoyed learning more about aviation and British Airways in general as this has always been a passion of mine. I look forward to learning more about the business and myself.

My programme is the first of its kind in my business and therefore there have been some bumps along the way. My group are trailblazers for this course and therefore we figuring things out along the way. Currently the course has not been structured in the best way but I believe it will get better.

My employer is very supportive of my work, academic and personal needs. I have been supported greatly by British Airways in both my personal life and been given the time to ensure I am able to study. The university has also helped me to develop my academic knowledge and skills.

My university has been able to help me with understanding academics and how to write a good assignment providing positive and constructive criticism along the way. I would have liked to have some past assignments to give me a better understanding of how to complete the work as I have no prior academic experience other than GCSE’s and a BTEC.

The qualification is allowing me to identify ways of working and apply my knowledge and theories in real life. It allows me to develop my own knowledge and experiences to a greater standard. Therefore in the long term I will be a more rounded professional and will be able to continue developing.

My cohort are very social and we organise events outside of work such as going to the theatre. We also get involved with our community team at our workplace to get involved with different fundraising and social events such as abseiling and raffles. My work place offers different sporting clubs that we can get involved in.

Yes

I believe BA have really progressed in looking after its people and I would say that they have been very supportive personally and professionally. As the business is so large there is a lot to room for development and progression. There are so many departments that there is always something new to learn.

I would advise others to show who they are through their application. BA are about their people and if you posses the correct attitude and behaviours then the skills can be taught to you. It is important to have initiative and willingness to learn from others as so many in the business have been here for many many years.