Technical Engineering Apprentice Review

by BAE Systems

Best Apprenticeship Employer

Rating

9/10

1. Please give an overview of your role and what this involves on a day-to-day basis:

Depending on which placement you are currently in. Can vary from dealing with customers/colleagues, designing new parts/changing the design or parts, testing systems and components, writing/editing technical documentation as well as shop floor work. You are often involved in communication through meetings, emails and phones calls.

8/10

2. Have you learnt any new skills or developed existing skills?

I have been working towards an NVQ level 3 in Engineering Technical Support. I have also achieved a BTEC in Aeronautical Engineering and am now working towards a Higher National Certificate in the same subjects. I have learnt how to use a number of new computer toolsets and programmes and believe I have become a more well-rounded individual by developing professional and personal skills through my various placements.

10/10

3. To what extent do you enjoy your programme?

Overall I enjoy my apprenticeship programme. I have met a lot of great people and like the morale in the workplace. How much I enjoyed each placement varies and is down to me as an individual. I really enjoyed my last placement and my role within the team.

7/10

4. How valued do you feel by BAE Systems?

As an apprentice you do feel valued within the company. A lot of money is spent on your training and the facilities that are available to you. The majority of the staff here started off as apprentices and there for always ensure you are looked after well and learn through doing your job.

9/10

5. How well organised/structured is your programme?

The programme structure is good as you get a good overview of the different areas of the company throughout your different placements. If anything the placements are a little too short to fully get to grip with each placement and feel like you have become a competent member of the team you are working in.

8/10

6a. How much support do you receive from your training provider?

Lots of support available.

10/10

6b. How much support do you receive from your employer?

Lots of support available

10/10

7. How well does your salary/package meet your costs?

The salary is very competitive to any other apprenticeship of the same level. you are paid well for the job you are doing and there are pay increments based on how well you are completing your apprenticeship which act as a good incentive to work hard.

9/10

8. Are there many opportunities outside of work?

There are lots of opportunities outside of work and lots of facilities on site to use. Last year I was able to take part in the German Exchange and spent 3 weeks working at Airbus Defence & Space in Germany, before hosting a German apprentice here for 3 weeks

10/10

9. Would you recommend BAE Systems to a friend?

Yes

9b. Why?

Great place to work with fantastic opportunities.

10. What tips or advice would you give to others applying to BAE Systems?

Prepare well for the interviews and test. Think of why the company would benefit from investing in you.