Aircraft Maintenance Apprentice Review
at British Airways
Level 3 Apprenticeship
Engineering
Hounslow
Review Submitted: May 2022
Overall Rating
4.6 /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!
4/5
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Overview of Role
4/5
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Skills Development
4.6/5
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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:
4/5
I am actively carrying out a variety of maintenance tasks on live operating aircraft within the fleet. My job involves closely monitoring safety at all times by following aircraft technical documentation for every task. In order to gain competency to apply for a maintenance license, I have studied and passed a number of module exams and captured all my experience into a log book
To what extent do you enjoy your programme?
4/5
I enjoy my programme when I am involved in tasks. I demonstrate my passion for engineering by taking pride in my work with every task. The apprenticeship has allowed me to experience all of the different maintenance areas and build my knowledge of aircraft systems and components. I am always excited to see what needs to be fixed next.
Skills Development
Have you learnt any new skills or developed existing skills?
4/5
I have developed my skills continuously over the course of the apprenticeship. I have become more aware of hazards and mistakes to look out for, and more importantly developed my hand skills. I am able to extract pertinent information from aircraft manuals more effectively which makes me a more resourceful engineering apprentice
Structure and Support
How well organised/structured is your programme?
4/5
The programme is fairly well structured. Resource group did a very good job of preparing me for my module exams, and mostly always provided a brief pause after an exam to safeguard our wellbeing and give us breathing space. British Airways has also organised time for work placements and training to develop our competency
How much support do you receive from your employer?
5/5
My managers are always checking up on me to ensure that I am on good health, mentally and physically. There are also cohort catch up sessions and NVQ progress reports to ensure that I am staying on track. My apprentice management team always recognises my achievements and give gratitude. This gives me a sense of security and joy
How much support do you receive from your training provider when working towards your qualifications?
4/5
I am constantly supported by my managers with regards to working towards my qualifications. This includes progress calls, study materials, assessor support calls, time off work when struggling and general Q&A sessions. Resource Group have even sent assessors across the country to carry out observations with me and other apprentices towards our NVQ.
How well do you feel that your qualification (through your training provider) helps you to perform better in your role?
5/5
My level 3 Aircraft fitter/technician qualification is exactly what I need to apply for an A license once I feel that I have enough log book material to demonstrate competency. A part of the approved course involves a workshop phase, which has introduced me into the world of sheet metal shaping. Without that foundation knowledge, I’d never be able to carry out and structural repairs on aircraft without close supervision. These are skills that I will develop for my entire life
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
There are so many out-of-work activities. I am always playing 5-a side football with colleagues. British Airways even gave me the opportunity to watch England play against Tonga and Ireland on another occasion provided that I fundraise for Comic relief before the match. I have met celebrities, including Gary Lineker and most of the teamGB olympians, including gold medalists. It’s an exciting aspect of the job and I am all about it!
Recommendations & Advice
Would you recommend British Airways to a friend?
Yes
Why?
You will get everything that you need for becoming a licensed aircraft engineer. A CAP741 log book full of different tasks on the most modern aircraft, all your A license (and B license if you finish early) modules towards your CAA license, as well as type courses. You get a brilliant salary in the second and third years for an apprentice, and the benefits working for this company are incredible
What tips or advice would you give to others applying to British Airways?
Just be aware that in aircraft maintenance, safety is always the number one priority. You must demonstrate your understanding of this topic and exercise your responsibilities of maintaining it at all times. If you cannot work as part of a team then this is not the job for you as aircraft maintenance is a team orientated industry, with honest communication being a part of every approach
