Technical Apprentice Review

Day to day work consist of many different projects depending on the department I am in. I have been involved in testing aircrafts, writing contracts to developing new techniques to help athletes. The jobs can range from office (computer and meetings) to working in hangers testing and resolving problems

I am completing my HNC and starting my HND this year so education is always being developed. I am completing a level 3 NVQ which is spread out over the time in my placements. From each placement you learn a large amount of different skills which I have applied in other jobs and in further education

With each placement you have to work with a new team and each team involves you and supports your learning. The work is always something different and interesting. From moving placements and doing different work you gain a wide view of the company which is good.

The managers are always reassuring and are always willing to talk. The assessors will come and organise meetings to check up and make sure everything is being done in terms of safety, work and overall apprenticeship. Each team value your input and ideas as they are discussed and sometimes used if appropriate.

Completed first year at Preston training centre which built up a wide range of skills in order for us to move on to site. The training from this and in each job is more than enough for you to understand and complete the work. There is always support from managers, employees and assessors. The structure is set out good and is easy to understand.

There are tutorials available if needed and these are recommended. Support is easy to get as it is always just a phone call or email away. Any advice or guidance needed will be provided to a high standard. There is more than enough support provided in order to gain the best out of you and the opportunity.

In each placement you receive a lot of support in order for you to complete your job. Your mentor/assessor will have regular meetings with you so there is always support there. Any problems which arise can be quickly fixed as it is easy to gain support with anything. Everyone is willing to help whether its the job or apprenticeship.

As always you will always want a higher salary but realistically it is a very good wage for what I am doing. It is enough for me to travel to work and covers the cost of everyday living. One of the main problems with the young age range associated with this apprenticeship is car insurance and this wage allows you o run the car and the cost associated with it.

There are always chances to get involved with extra work events. Such as a community project, apprentice open evenings, air shows etc. The chances are spread to everyone in the apprentice years. There are also football teams and other opportunities which are not promoting work but have come about due to BAE Systems.

Yes

Great company to work for. The work is always something different. You are always learning whether it is theory based to practical in hangers. There are many benefits and it develops you as a person.

When applying stay calm and try your best. Complete everything you can to full while being truthful. The experiences you will gain will be worth all the effort and time spent applying and preparing for the application process. Its alright to be nervous as it shows you want the job.