mechanical fitter apprentice Review
at BAE Systems
Level 3 Apprenticeship
Engineering
Portsmouth
Review Submitted: April 2023
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!
4.5/5
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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
In the first year, a day in the centre consists of either working in the classroom to gain a deeper understanding of the work we are doing or in the workshop developing our practical skills such as stripping engines, building hydraulic circuits and pipe fitting.
To what extent do you enjoy your programme?
5/5
i really enjoy my programme, the knowledge side compliments what we are currently doing in the workshop meaning i get a good balance of classroom and workshop while gaining a deeper understanding of everything i am doing. the course has lots of variety meaning that it never gets boring and i stay attentive.
Skills Development
Have you learnt any new skills or developed existing skills?
4/5
since being here i have developed many different skills and knowledge, i have learned all the different components of engines and hydraulics and theyre functions. i have also learned how the work together to achieve a goal and how to carry out maintenance on these components. as well as this we have also learnt accompanying health and safety and safeguarding knowledge.
Structure and Support
How well organised/structured is your programme?
5/5
my programme has a good structure. the checkpoints for our skills are clearly identified and more than enough time is allowed to reach these checkpoints. by balancing knowledge and workshop skills it means that you never feel overwhelmed although the workflow is steady. the instructors are very good at communicating and making it clear what you should be doing, when it should be done and to what standard it needs to be completed meaning there is little to no confusion
How much support do you receive from your employer?
4/5
my employer offers lots of support to all apprentices, including helplines and counsellors for mental health problems, occupational health appointments for general health problems and queries. the staff are very welcoming and are happy to help if you have any problems that you need to talk about. each apprentice is provided with a tutor which they can have regular check ins with and raise any problems that you may have.
How much support do you receive from your training provider when working towards your qualifications?
5/5
The centre provides lots of help when it comes to working towards our qualifications, they set clear plans and trackers so you dont fall behind and offer gentle reminders when work is due. when preparing for exams and assessments they ensure that they allow for focused revision and learning prior to the exam so you feel confident and supported through the process.
How well do you feel that your qualification (through your training provider) helps you to perform better in your role?
5/5
i believe that the centre teaches us all the necessities that we will need for when we joiin the business, the instructors out of their way to ensure that we have the correct knowledge and experience before going out on the business which i believe will make our transition into the business much easier and will reduce the chances of us feeling overwhelmed.
Are there extra-curricular activities to get involved in at your work? (For example, any social activities, sports teams, or even professional networking events.)
4/5
BAE offer lots of social events for apprentices across the business which are organised by the apprentice social team, these allow for apprentices from different sectors to network and expand their circle. there are some sport opportunities such as the field gun team. and networking events are fairly common which gives you the opportunity to meet people from all across the business.
Recommendations & Advice
Would you recommend BAE Systems to a friend?
Yes
Why?
I think its a great company that could set someone up for a lifelong career, they teach you great behaviours as well as the knowledge required for your job. The pay for apprentices is great for a young person trying to start out in the world and even if you decide later on that it isnt the best option for you they teach you lots of transferrable skills that can be used in many other jobs. there is a strong sense of community and is a great environment to work in.
What tips or advice would you give to others applying to BAE Systems?
Be confident, be yourself. the company teaches you everything you need to know so previous qualifications arent the be all and end all. they are investing in you as a person so sell yourself and make them want you. it is important to be friendly and not too cocky. i think its a really great career starter and it is worth the work that you put in.
