Software Engineer Review

by BAE Systems

Best Apprenticeship Employer

Rating

9.7/10

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

Software Engineer, designing, developing and testing software. Documenting the entire process. I work with people within different departments and I am trusted to work independently whenever possible.

10/10

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

I have learnt new programming techniques and bettered the ones I already had. I have done external training in interpersonal skills and understanding others.

10/10

3. To what extent do you enjoy your programme?

I enjoy the programme a lot, I have responsibilities of a full employee but the support structure that allows me to ask for help whenever I need it without feeling bad about myself.

10/10

4. How valued do you feel by BAE Systems?

I get constructive criticism for everything I do never just negative and everyone has a positive attitude about training and helping apprentices and they understand that we are new to the company and to the job.

10/10

5. How well organised/structured is your programme?

Well strucutured for the most part, some things are either too late or unnecessary but these things are few and far between. It depends on which placement it is though as to how the manager treats you and what responsibilities you have.

9/10

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

Support is good and always available. Everyone has a positive attitude toward apprentices and wants to see them grow and understands that they may not be able to work alone all the time.

10/10

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

There are enough people that you can talk to for support, we have a dedicated support person that puts our well being above everything else work related as well as a dedicated early careers team, however they are often busy so best to use others when possible.

8/10

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

The salary is very good and due to living 15 minutes from site, travel costs are fairly cheap. I was able to buy a brand new car straight away while still paying rent to my parents and still being able to save for a deposit on a house.

10/10

8. Are there many opportunities outside of work?

There are a lot of oppurtunites outside of work to help with company events like careers fairs or speaking events at sixth form colleges. You are paid for most as they are classed as working hours. It is nice to help people understand the course and get on board with it. There are also a lot of work related sports teams and clubs to join with colleagues.

10/10

9. Would you recommend BAE Systems to a friend?

Yes

9b. Why?

It is a great employer that cares about its employees and understands their needs. The course is well done and you recieve plenty of support form everyone.

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

Be yourself and understand the business. Read the latest news about BAE before coming to the interview. Take every oppurtunity you can to do every event and extra thing you can, it's good to help and get your name out there and also expands your knowledge.