Degree Apprentice Project Management Review
at BAE Systems
Degree Apprenticeship
Engineering
Cumbria
Review Submitted: April 2023
Overall Rating
3.9 /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!
3.5/5
-
Overview of Role
4/5
-
Skills Development
3.6/5
-
Structure and Support
Overview of Role
Please give an overview of your role and what this involves on a day-to-day basis:
3/5
Currently, I am placed within a PSL role in line with the boat build. The role consists of looking at work orders and job packs to identify if all the material is available and that the work order is okay to be handed over to ops to be completed, following process in line with business expectations.
To what extent do you enjoy your programme?
4/5
I enjoy being on 6 monthly placements to experience a range of areas of the business and explore a range of opportunities within varied roles. The programme allows me to gain continued knowledge and experience whilst gaining both a BSc Degree in Project Management alongside attaining a monthly income. I enjoy having the opportunity to be involved in a range of business improvements, contributing to business needs and evolution.
Skills Development
Have you learnt any new skills or developed existing skills?
4/5
Following the L6 Project Manager Standard, I work against a set of criteria to enhance my competences within the business, developing my knowledge in elements such as stakeholder management to risk management. Parallel to the these competences, I continually develop my soft skills by participating in a range of STRETCH activities to enhance my behaviours.
Structure and Support
How well organised/structured is your programme?
4/5
The programme is highly structured to ensure that apprentices are on target, having the opportunity to discuss progress with skills coaches through 12 weekly reviews. Communication between apprentices and early careers is maintained and from my experience, I feel fully supported in all aspects of the scheme. I do feel that the communication between the operation function leads could be improved.
How much support do you receive from your employer?
4/5
I feel fully supported within my scheme and feel that any issues I have can be effectively communicated and discussed with early careers, with support to find a solution moving forward. During difficult times, the business offers support to protect my wellbeing and make sure that I am comfortable. This is highly appreciated.
How much support do you receive from your training provider when working towards your qualifications?
2/5
I feel that this area could be slightly improved as although there is 12 weekly reviews, I feel that the skills coaches are not always aware of the modules we are currently on to provide further support. The University of Cumbria does not always have full awareness of the course, making it difficult to seek help.
How well do you feel that your qualification (through your training provider) helps you to perform better in your role?
3/5
Being in operations, the project management degree content is not always necessary in the role I am placed in as the placements are often more focused on the build and closer to operational tasks rather than the project management of the work. This makes me worry at times that the knowledge I am gaining is not being utilised and I could be at risk of losing it.
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
Being part of the LHAC, I am open to opportunities to both plan and take part in a range of social activities that help build up the social networking amongst the apprentice population. This can range from sorting activities to social gatherings, helping me build strong working relationships with my peers. Alongside social events, the LHAC council provides scope for people to come together to support house sharing opportunities.
Recommendations & Advice
Would you recommend BAE Systems to a friend?
Yes
Why?
BAE Systems provides apprenticeships that utilise the earn while you learn motive, earning you can develop your knowledge and experience through on the job learning, whilst gaining qualification and a monthly salary. This is perfect for individuals who are kinaesthetic learners and are more productive being hands on and learning from experience of actually doing. Not only does the company provide great opportunities but it is a business that provides great value to the country, making you feel a heightened purpose.
What tips or advice would you give to others applying to BAE Systems?
Be honest, be you and be real. The business welcomes people from all walks of life and ensures that the employment ratios are diverse, offering equal opportunities. Not everyone needs to have trade background knowledge or come from a family of tradesman - but a keenness to learn, a keenness to thrive and keenness to be a hardworking, adaptable worker within the business.
