Aerospace Enginner Degree Apprenticeship Review
at BAE Systems
Degree Apprenticeship
Engineering
East Riding of Yorkshire
Review Submitted: March 2021
Overall Rating
4.7 /5
The Overall Rating is the average of all the ratings given in each category. We take those individual ratings and combine them into one final score!
5/5
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Overview of Role
5/5
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Skills Development
4.4/5
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Structure and Support
Overview of Role
Please give an overview of your role and what this involves on a day-to-day basis:
5/5
My aim is to complete the Aerospace Engineering degree apprenticeship. The role is to maintain and inspect aircraft and carry out repairs and learn how to manage and document these events. At the moment, I am learning the theory behind the practical work I will apply in September and learning this in the workshop now.
To what extent do you enjoy your programme?
5/5
In the first 3 months I have enjoyed every day, from learning theoretically the principles of aircraft maintenance, repair and inspection to actually applying this in the workshops. Having passed my theory exams, it allows me to access knowledge to apply on my practical work and work towards achieving the CAA certificate.
Skills Development
Have you learnt any new skills or developed existing skills?
5/5
I have learnt how to use pneumatic tools, especially rivet guns. Fling, cutting and drilling sheets of metal to a precise measurement whilst keeping in tolerance. I have developed filing and precision drilling and also how to use a hack saw and needle files to accurately cut into corners and keeping in tolerance.
Structure and Support
How well organised/structured is your programme?
4/5
The structure is clearly laid out, with key dates for when we are starting new activities or course content. The company moved our theory to the start of our apprenticeship due to COVID so we learnt online from home. This worked really well as I can now focus on passing practical work.
How much support do you receive from your employer?
5/5
They are also on hand to help with any queries or worries I have. It is easy to reach out to the correct people you need to get in touch with and they act on your concern very quickly which is assuring. Things get done efficiently and the response time is rapid.
How much support do you receive from your training provider when working towards your qualifications?
5/5
They are always around to support and guide me through work. At the moment, I have remedial sessions in the evening to help me and a few others to pass the exam to get the highest certificate possible which is helpful. These sessions are very easy to attend and are very helpful.
How well do you feel that your qualification (through your training provider) helps you to perform better in your role?
5/5
I feel I can get things done more efficiently and productively as they are always reminding and helping with things. The theory I have learnt is always applied to the practical work I am doing on a daily basis. It allows me to get a deeper understanding of how applying theoretical knowledge to practical work is achieved.
Are there extra-curricular activities to get involved in at your work? (For example, any social activities, sports teams, or even professional networking events.)
3/5
There are many company events which are available to me, BAE Systems have sports fields and areas to socialise. Out of work, we go and play football and we are starting a BAE 5-a-side football team. There are early recruiting events which I am invited to help out with and can be sent to schools to give presentations on what I will be doing and how the application process.
Recommendations & Advice
Would you recommend BAE Systems to a friend?
Yes
Why?
It is an outstanding all round package, with great opportunities and a highly competitive salary. The structure of the apprenticeship is clear and easy to follow and the things lined up for me in the future is very exciting. Developing new and existing skills at the start, sets you up for future placements, and BAE also provides an opportunity to work in the company at the end of it.
What tips or advice would you give to others applying to BAE Systems?
Get your application in early and make sure you meet all of the requirements and qualifications. Take time to really understand and research the company so you know what you are getting in to as you need to be passionate about wanting to work for BAE Systems. Concentrate and prepare for the interview as that is the most important part.
