Nuclear Engineer Review
at BAE Systems
Higher Level Apprenticeship
Engineering
Barrow-in-Furness
Review Submitted: April 2021
Overall Rating
5 /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
5/5
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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
I am currently on a placement in the quality department. We respond to different defects identified during reactor build and investigate them depending on importance. We also attend meetings in which we forecast actual, and predicted, quality metrics. We are currently implementing a process focused improvement system called QMS which will drive positive change
To what extent do you enjoy your programme?
5/5
The BAE Systems HA programme is not for the feint hearted but the rewards are also immeasurable. The knowledge you gain from both the educational and vocational aspects of the scheme stand you in good stead for your career; and you learn from the best employees in the business both academically and practically
Skills Development
Have you learnt any new skills or developed existing skills?
5/5
To produce the metrics you need MS Excel skills such as pivot table understanding which I am currently developing. Time management is a big part of working on such a complex product so planning your schedule and use of Gantt charts is helpful. MS Power Point is also used frequently and professionally
Structure and Support
How well organised/structured is your programme?
5/5
The Nuclear scheme is very well organised with your rotational placements outlined for three years from day one. There is also flexibility in the structure if you identify a placement you are keen on experiencing. Monthly Forums are held where apprentices air common issues and highlight successes that benefit the scheme
How much support do you receive from your employer?
5/5
Support is provided on many levels at BAE Systems. Positive health and wellbeing is ensured using ambassadors and events on multiple platforms: including podcasts and drop in sessions on work life balance. Educational and Financial support is also a big part of what is so great about the apprenticeship at BAE Systems
How much support do you receive from your training provider when working towards your qualifications?
5/5
Our training provider, as well as delivering course content, and facilitating exams and assignments, go out of there way to tailor our learning to the needs of the business. We have frequent 1 to 1 sessions to air any problems and find solutions. Any issues raised are resolved very quickly
How well do you feel that your qualification (through your training provider) helps you to perform better in your role?
5/5
The competencies we gain during our training have been derived from strong communication between our employer and the training provider. This gives us a specific skills set essential to performing our job roles well, even in the broad range of areas in which we have placements. The course is tailored for highly performing individuals.
Are there extra-curricular activities to get involved in at your work? (For example, any social activities, sports teams, or even professional networking events.)
5/5
Regular sporting and charitable events are encouraged at BAE Systems. Groups gather frequently for social events and the company will pay for membership into a professional organisation, like the Nuclear Institute, which hold seminars and conferences around the UK. Very useful for professional networking and expanding your knowledge base into unfamiliar territory.
Recommendations & Advice
Would you recommend BAE Systems to a friend?
Yes
Why?
My experience of BAE Systems Higher Apprenticeship has been extremely positive. I have learnt so much and felt supported every step of the way. I would encourage anyone considering a career in Engineering, with the drive to succeed, to apply for an Apprenticeship at BAE Systems. You would not regret it
What tips or advice would you give to others applying to BAE Systems?
Fully consider which field of Engineering appeals to you most and make sure you do your homework on it. There is some freedom to move around but your scheme will be tailored to that specialisation. Apply early and do lots of research and preparation. It is a good idea to think how your real world experiences make you a great fit for BAE Systems
