Project Management Higher Apprentice Review

My job role will depend on the placement I am in at the time, but project management tasks include monitoring project finances and taking measures to control them if necessary, analysing project risks, producing project schedules and taking steps to adhere to them, issue resolution, stakeholder management and the production of workstream packs.

My technical knowledge of the product has developed significantly since starting the scheme - I've been fortunate enough to work on the Reactor in two separate placements so that was an opportunity that most people in the world wouldn't be able to say they've had. I'm learning every single day - new skill sets, management tools, processes, policies, as well as functional and technical knowledge. The scheme has also helped to develop my confidence, working with senior management and knowing I'm learning from the best.

I really enjoy my programme, especially now I'm in my third year as I am given the flexibility to choose what placements I would like to do. This means I can choose areas of the business I am interested in, or know I enjoy, and this ensures I am enthusiastic about my work.

The programme is very well organised. It links well with the APM qualification we study alongside our apprenticeship, as well as our college modules. In the first two years, you are required to meet competencies that demonstrate your capability as a Project Engineer. The placements you complete are structured around this, to help you tick them off. Once you've completed them, the programme gives you more flexibility.

I have a multitude of support networks that I know I can access if I needed to. The Early Careers team are dedicated to our wellbeing, and we have meetings with them every 12 weeks to ensure we're safe at work, enjoying ourselves, and to set ourselves goals for the upcoming 12 weeks. The PM function are also very supportive; we have monthly 1:1s where we can discuss anything and everything and they are confidential. I also have a mentor who supports me no end, as well as a network I have built up whilst moving from placement to placement. For example, if I had a query about risk, I would happily approach the Risk Management Team whom I spent four months with to ask for help.

It is clear to me that the business are invested in me and my skillset, and they encourage you to take on any and all learning that you deem necessary or beneficial for your role. I am currently in the process of applying for Further Education to complete my Bachelor's Degree in Project Management, as my Foundation Degree (funded by the business) draws to a close. This application process has been fully supported by the PM function as they've given me advice and tips on how to write a good application.

I feel I could not do my job as well as I am doing now without the qualifications I have undertaken. The FdSc in Project Management lays the foundations of the key knowledge and toolsets used in project management - lifecycle management, risk, cost management, change, issues, conflict, communication, stakeholders. There are so many elements to PM and it would be confusing to dive straight into a job without having explored those elements through college first. The APM qualification alongside that strengthens it even further and allows you to put into practice the theory you've been taught, with confidence.

There are an abundance of "stretch" activities for us to get involved in, I have been involved in so many over the three years. They are often fun, mini projects to manage and they also help us to give back to the community. For example, in my three years I've raised £1000 for our local Children's Ward through managing a fundraiser with BAE, I've helped to organise a charity football tournament that raised money for Help for Heroes, and I'm involved in an Enabled working group that focuses on disability in the workplace and how we can best help those who may need it. I've also been a STEM ambassador, visiting so many local schools to inspire children into picking STEM careers.

Yes

My favourite thing about BAE Systems is the fact we are a huge global company, with offices all over the world, creating such complex products, yet we're still focused on supporting the local community of Barrow-in-Furness. As previously mentioned, I've had so many opportunities to give back to my local community through BAE Systems and it makes me very proud to work here. Furthermore, you are truly valued by the company and are encouraged to constantly learn, improve and grow.

Take your time with your application and make sure you mean what you're writing, as this will make the interview process much easier. If you mean what you're writing, the conversation will flow naturally when you're asked further questions on it. And, the scheme is a lot of hard work and you will be on your toes for the next three years, but it will be so worth it once you're done, in terms of personal growth and satisfaction.