Business Apprentice Review

I am a business apprentice at BAE Systems which requires me to move around different departments within the business. This involves departments such as Project Management, Quality and Operations. My role is to take on tasks which other people may not have the time to do and to help organise events which take place throughout the business.

I have both learnt and developed many skills during my two year apprenticeship. Within the first year I undertook an Advanced Excel course at the local Business School. I then took an IT exam in order for me to gain a qualification which allows me to complete my NVQ. I also went on a Project Management Awareness Course which helped me gain a greater understanding of what is required within the business.

I do enjoy my apprenticeship at BAE Systems as you get to meet a lot of people and get to visit the other site. Every day is different as it depends on who is available to give you work. This means you can be doing one thing, and the next day you can move on to something completely different.

I personally feel very valued. Every department I have been in have welcomed me as part of their team and have never made me feel like an outsider. Even though I am only in each department for 3 months, they teach me everything I need to know and trust me to use my own initiative.

My programme is very structured and I always know where I am going. Before I began my placements, a plan had already been put in place and communicated to both myself and my future team leaders. This made each transition easier and meant I had time to prepare for a change in placement.

My training provider is based at Preston in Lancashire. From this perspective I don’t receive a lot of support however I know it is there if I need it. The Brough based team which provide training for the Engineers give me a lot of support and allow me to go to them if I have any problems.

If I ever need any support, my employers try and provide it for me right away. Any queries I have are always followed up by somebody senior to myself; and I therefore know anything I ask will be dealt with rapidly. The support I received for my IT training exceeded expectations.

During my first year I was struggling a little with running my car and paying rent. As I have progressed my salary has covered both of these and enabled me to have enough disposable income to not have to worry about sticking to a budget. The salary given considering it is an apprenticeship is extremely generous.

Currently as an apprentice, I am unsure as to if there are any opportunities outside of work. As I only get an NVQ Level Three I think there will be many people in the same position as me. I do believe that the experience gained at BAE Systems will help me progress outside of work if necessary.

Yes

I would recommend BAE Systems to a friend because the company really look after you and really care about your progression throughout the business. The company actively look for you a full time role when your apprenticeship is coming to an end so you never feel as though you have to worry about your future.

When applying for BAE Systems, ensure you do thorough research about the company, especially at interview stage. Make sure you know exactly which apprenticeship is right for you so you don’t feel as though you’ve missed out. Keep in mind that it is an engineering company and is very dominated by that field.