Technical Apprentice Review

My role is to assist with normal day to day activities within different departments. activities range from testing components and fault finding to visually inspecting assemblies and ensuring they are not susceptable to interference.

I have learnt a number of new skills including high levels of soldering and inspection ability. As well as further developed my presentation skills and self-management.

I have really enjoyed my experience as part of the advanced apprenticeship scheme with BAE Systems.

To begin with, due to having no or minimal knowledge it feels as though you are not very useful to the company. But once the on site placements begin and the involvement with project work commences it is clear that all efforts towards contract completion are truly valued and appreciated.

The programme is very well thought out and is always under revision from those in control of the course as well as listening to feedback from us apprentices to further imporve the experience for the next years take-on.

Support is endless from the provider, be it from our apprentice management team or from individuals on site. All staff are more than happy to help and guide those willing to learn.

Employer support is also of a very good standard. supporting the individual issues and assisting and promoting progression into and up through the company.

Apprentice wages will always fall short of those who are not contractually abliged to learn as part of their employement. So basic wages are harsh for those who have previously worked full time in a 'normal job' but considering the training that is provided and the qualifications that are all fully funded by the company, it means we get to keep what we get paid, and get thousands of pounds worth of qualifications for 'free'

Outside of work there are other opportunities to be involved with other team members in a number of ways eg. football events and other exercise classes that are based here or near to the BAE site. As well as other company benefits such as Cycle to work, discounted components through our suppliers for personal use and many other employee benefits.

Yes

The experience has opened up a whole new career path for me and I am happy to have taken the opportunity and given the effort it required for me to gain this role within this well-established business.

I personally did not know much about electronics when I started, but through honesty, hard work and asking more than my fair share of questions I have been able to grasp the ideas and concepts around my work and I am beginning to love what I do. Solely down to the fact that now we are finishing off our 'base knowledge' pool, we are able to feel more comfortable with the work we are doing and feel more reliable and dependable with the efforts we make.