Test and Commissioning Degree Apprentice Review

Throughout the apprenticeship my role varies constantly. I do six month placements in various departments around the business in order to gain experience in all aspects of the industry. I do everything from paperwork to hands on testing and maintenance. The role is extremely varied and my supervisors do everything in their power to keep it interesting if the department I'm currently placed in gets quiet.

I am constantly developing new and existing skills through the various placements and roles I am working in. There is a constant company push for apprentices to gain as much knowledge as possible throughout their time in the business. This is very apparent and I look forward to pushing myself further as I go through the years.

The programme has been very enjoyable so far. I have met a lot of good people through the various departments in the business. They are always making an effort to keep me busy, keep me learning and keep me integrated with the team I am working in. The friendly atmosphere is one of the best parts of this business.

The programme has quite a loose structure relative to some other apprenticeships but not in a bad way. The supervisors work with you to tailor the apprenticeship to you. They have a high level of flexibility on where you can be placed within the business making no two apprentice's routes through the scheme the exact same. This allows you to develop a personalised programme to make your exit from the apprenticeship as beneficial to your future as possible.

I have been fully supported by my employer in every enquiry or request I have made so far. They are definitely on your side when it comes to helping out. Whether that's a work related query, an issue with the education side of the scheme or any personal matters. Whatever it is they will take the time to listen and work through it with you.

It is still early into my apprenticeship with regards to training for the qualifications but so far so good. The training provider is very approachable and very supportive of the cohort so far. Plenty of support provided in and out of college time, all lecturers going above and beyond to help out students where possible.

The qualification works along side my role to provide me with a greater and broader understanding of engineering and the nuclear industry but doesn't necessarily contribute directly to on the job skills and knowledge. It will be beneficial in the wider industry but for my role specifically, it could be tailored better.

There are plenty of extra-curricular activities going on around the business and a lot of enthusiasm to get more people involved. I have attended a few events and thoroughly enjoyed meeting other apprentices in a different setting. There could always be more social and sports events and I hope to see that expand in years to come as I know the apprentice council is working on this objective.

Yes

BAE Systems is a very friendly, welcoming and reliable employer. The apprenticeship scheme is very well established in all departments of the business and offers a great learning experience without excess stress or workload. The scale of the business allows for a well established early careers team with plenty of support. I have already recommended to several friends, some of which have since got an apprenticeship here!

With it being such a big business it is highly competitive. Do your research about the business and show genuine interest in the industry and it's products throughout the application process. Enthusiasm is very highly valued here and will be considered in your interview. Don't be put off if you don't get it the first time! There is a very high volume of applicants and I know several people who only got in after their 2nd or 3rd year of trying but don't regret the wait for a second.