Mechanical Higher Apprentice Review
at BAE Systems
Higher Level Apprenticeship
Mechanical Engineering
Portsmouth
Review Submitted: May 2024
Overall Rating
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
3.2/5
-
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
The placement areas change every 4 months, and so does the role and "day-to-day".
To what extent do you enjoy your programme?
4/5
To what extent? It's a good job.
Skills Development
Have you learnt any new skills or developed existing skills?
4/5
CNC, Programming, Testing electrical components, CAD, Maths, Project management.
Structure and Support
How well organised/structured is your programme?
4/5
Differs, somethings run smooth, others not so. For example salary increases, and transparency of pay information is very poor. The initial 3 month training was poorly structured too. But once out into the company and on placement, it's fairly smooth.
How much support do you receive from your employer?
4/5
I've always had my needs met. No issues.
How much support do you receive from your training provider when working towards your qualifications?
4/5
Same as previous.
How well do you feel that your qualification (through your training provider) helps you to perform better in your role?
2/5
Not well. It was mostly a box ticking exercise.
Are there extra-curricular activities to get involved in at your work? (For example, any social activities, sports teams, or even professional networking events.)
2/5
Initially we were told there would be, but I am yet to come across any. All there seems to be is project managers who organise "drinks nights".
Recommendations & Advice
Would you recommend BAE Systems to a friend?
Yes
Why?
Great money, great benefits (share scheme etc), allows for a good work life balance.
What tips or advice would you give to others applying to BAE Systems?
Try to do as many different placements as possible, don't stick to areas you know or want to exit into.
