Level 4 Higher Electrical Engineering Apprentice Review

As an apprentice in BAE System, what I do varies every 4 months as I change placements. I have done a variety of things such as functional Failure analysis for products; maintenance, repairs and surveys on board different classes and ships, and write ups such as technical reports and survey reports. Although Interesting, there are quite times where there is less work to do which can feel boring but allows time for college work.

There are a few skills that have developed. The main one for me is communication. That is because even though we do have people to report to who make sure we have work to do, we are ultimately responsible for our learning and the work we get. I have to ask for work if I have one to do, or I need to communicate with the team I am working with to get work done in meetings or emails.

Overall, I am enjoying the programme I am in. Being able to choose what placements I want to try is a big benefit as t allows for some self discovery of what you enjoy or don't enjoy. There is plenty of support for us by the company and employers.

There is a very structured programme at BAE in Portsmouth. You start in a training centre for 4-6 months where you learn hands on skills and basic technical knowledge. After that, every 4 months, you embark on different placements around the company. For the final year, you choose an anchor role which you stick with until the end of the apprenticeship.

I have received plenty of support from my employer. This support was highlighted when I inured myself. The staff at BAE were very supportive and understanding. They gave me the time to recover and I was given reduced hours so I could cope with work. I have not been professionally affected by this injury.

Plenty of support is received from Fareham College (CEMAST). PowerPoints containing an abundance of information is provided to us on Canvas to help us with assignments. Moreover, the trainers there are always happy to answer questions regarding assignments when we are stuck on a question. They always keep us informed of upcoming deadlines and assignments.

In some placements, I will start to notice subject that I have covered already in college which helps integrate me into the role better as I understand the system I am working on better. However, Not every placement is electrical based so sometimes the things I learn at college are not relevant.

There are plenty of extra-curricular activities. These are mostly social events which are organised by apprentices. An apprentice lead council we have are supported by the business and we are encouraged to suggest possible events so they can be organised for any apprentice to attend. There are also WhatsApp groups formed relating to different sports.

Yes

It is a very supportive place to work. There are many opportunities here with different placements and stretch assignments to help progress your skills. The pay here is also good, allowing for people not local to Portsmouth to move here and work here. They also like to hire apprentices, so is highly likely and almost guaranteed to be employed at the end unless you are not a good worker.

Make Sure you know plenty about BAE Systems, the other BAE sites and what ships BAE work on before the interview as they do like that apprentices have good knowledge about the company. It is also worth noting that if you have to move, look on Zoopla or Rightmove for a place to rent as you have to sort accommodation for yourself.