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Higherin

Combat System Apprentice Review

at BAE Systems

Degree Apprenticeship

Engineering

Glasgow

Review Submitted: April 2023

Overall Rating

3.4 /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 - Overview of Role
4/5 - Skills Development
3/5 - 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 involved in the developing and integrating of Combat Systems in BAE Naval Ships. Day to day this can involve reviewing existing drawings, analysing for any change needed and keeping up with the build of the ship as it draws closer to integration of our systems.
To what extent do you enjoy your programme?
4/5
I enjoy my apprenticeship a lot. It offers me a wide range of opportunities to not only advance my career but also develop my personal skills.

Skills Development

Have you learnt any new skills or developed existing skills?
4/5
I have developed my communication skills through attending meetings, hosting meetings and holding presentations at the end of every placement. My engineering skills have also developed through learning on the job.

Structure and Support

How well organised/structured is your programme?
3/5
Our apprenticeship is fairly well organised. However, there could be improved communication between the university and our company as there are often crossed wires or subjects that do not get discussed until it is too late.
How much support do you receive from your employer?
3/5
In my placements, I receive constant support from my placement manager and their teams. The engineering community is welcoming to those who are willing to learn and want to advance.
How much support do you receive from your training provider when working towards your qualifications?
3/5
The support system is definitely there, however they may benefit from understanding our roles to a better degree. There is often confusion due to this aspect not being fully known.
How well do you feel that your qualification (through your training provider) helps you to perform better in your role?
3/5
Our degree is rather varied and gives more of an overview on a range of engineering subjects. There are a number of classes that are beneficial. Conducting some projects helps to develop skills that are used in work.
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
I am unsure of social activities or sports teams but I have taken part in networking events which have always been rather enjoyable. However, these are more aimed at employees instead of apprentices. I do not get the chance to network with apprentices except those in the same career path as me.

Recommendations & Advice

Would you recommend BAE Systems to a friend?
Yes
Why?
There is a large amount of apprenticeship options that offer different levels of qualifications. Not only do you get to learn and work towards an academic goal, you also get the chance to learn on the job and benefit from your time in the workplace. It means once you have finished your apprenticeship, you have had workplace experience and can integrate a lot more smoothly.
What tips or advice would you give to others applying to BAE Systems?
Be confident in your abilities and show a willingness to improve on your existing skills and add to them. Being able to adapt to new situations and being eager to learn shows interest in your career.
In This Review
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