Technician Review

I am currently cycling through a number of work based placements around the company performing a variety of roles within the workplace. In the current department I am carrying out hands on testing with pre production electronic systems currently going through the development stage. In previous placements I have had the opportunity to carry out other tasks such as the design of test aids as well as the upkeep of equipment used on site.

Through the apprenticeship I have had a number of great opportunities to learn and develop new skills. The on the job training aspect of the course has allowed me to learn a great deal regarding the design and maintenance of electronics as well as key fault finding skills. External training course such as the ones undertaken at college have allowed for key knowledge to be learnt and then transferred over to the day to day experiences on site.

Overall since I've started working within BAE Systems the work environment at the company is really good to be part of. Everyone on site is friendly and willing to help with any issues or queries that may arise during different situation. The variety of work given is vast and a large amount can be learnt. The process so far has exceeded many personal expectations and has proven to be a thoroughly enjoyable experience thus far. I look forward to the rest of my time within the company.

The company makes you feel like a valued member of the team at all times. Even though you may be at a lower level than those around you the amount of involvement within a project is the same as that of a more experienced co worker. Regular feedback and reviews allow for you to feel recognised as a valued member of the team at all times and help you improve yourself as well. However in the form of external recognition it is hard to see any opportunities for this to happen.

The course itself is very structured and feels organised a majority of the time. The on site work itself follows a very well thought out and laid out plan and the use of a training manual allows for apprentices to b fully aware of everything going on and allows for them to keep track of their current progress. NVQ review meetings also allow for a good understanding of progress within the qualification aspect of the course. The only issue is to be found with the further education provider which is an off site company. The lack of structure and organisation demonstrated within this aspect of the apprenticeship can sometimes prove frustrating.

With regards to the off-site higher education, the support given is of a very poor quality. It is often found that tutors are either not willing to give support and guidance or are simply not around to do so. The NVQ aspect of the course is the polar opposite with constant support and guidance being given at every opportunity which is really helpful over the course of the apprenticeship. I understand however it is difficult for BAE Systems staff and support to help this as the training support is obviously external and with a partnered company such as local colleges etc.

Lots! The amount of support given by the employer is above and beyond most expectations. The HR team are friendly and approachable allowing for any issues to be cleared with ease. Extra training opportunities are also given if required. The supervisors within the workplace are also incredibly supportive and are willing to help with as much of your training as possible. Everyone generally helps out and asks questions about my apprenticeship and is interesting in talking to me and helping me out.

It meets my costs fairly well considering I'm on apprenticeship wages. The salary allows for a comfortable standard of living to be achieved. Due to only having to travel a small distance to work the salary easily covers travel costs. A healthy social life can also be upheld. However if I was to be renting in the area and living alone then the salary would prove to be a small issue and money would be very tight. I know a few apprentices who have to do this however but can manage it so this is still possible.

The company holds a number of events that can be taken part in ranging from theatre trips to on site quiz nights. The company also works closely with local schools to provide STEM opportunities that can be undertaken by apprentices. The location itself is a good area for socialising with many leisure opportunities being available. We have opportunities to travel into and around the Hull area visiting and helping schools and talking to children about engineering which is something different to do and quite interesting as well. It's nice to give back to the local community.

Yes

The company is very supportive with regards to their apprentices and overall the course has been thoroughly enjoyable so far. There are a large number of opportunities available to learn new skills and improve those already learnt. I would definitely say that out of all the apprenticeships i have heard about or looked into, BAE Systems definitely seems the best choice in terms of salary, support and overall opportunities. For anyone interested in technical engineering, craft, business, or software engineering, i would highly reccomend it.

Previous experience with engineering and electronics isn't necessary but I found that it helped a large amount when working through the business. Depending on which apprenticeship or job you apply for, i would definitely look up online on BAE Systems' website about what to expect and what they offer within that apprenticeship then you can ask more questions about what to perhaps expect. Ensure you show your enthusiasm with the staff and take notes.