Technical Apprentice Review
at BAE Systems
Level 3 Apprenticeship
Aeronautical and Aerospace Engineering
Rochester, Kent
Review Submitted: March 2025
Overall Rating
3.6 /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
-
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 currently in the third year of my apprenticeship and within my third year placement. My placement is currently with the Calibration department and the day-to-day activities consists of carrying out the maintenance and calibration of various types of test sets found throughout site as well as fixing any faults on test equipment in the different departments.
To what extent do you enjoy your programme?
4/5
The work I carry out within my placement offers a nice balance of challenging tasks to complete and also allows me to work with various people within the different departments which can help me integrate within the business more effectively. I enjoy the work I carry out as the different types of calibrations and tests I carry out are engaging and the calibration team I work with are knowledgeable and easy to get along with and make me feel a part of the team.
Skills Development
Have you learnt any new skills or developed existing skills?
4/5
Within my time in the Calibration placement and the shorter placements in the different departments within the second year of my apprenticeship, I have continued to develop my understanding and knowledge on electrical fault finding and using various types of tools and equipment. My communication skills has improved as I am required to use various types of communication methods to various people in the different departments such as meetings with managers to discuss potential replacements of faulty items or writing emails to technicians to gain a deeper understanding of the fault they may have with a piece of equipment.
Structure and Support
How well organised/structured is your programme?
3/5
The placement side of the programme has been structured to an acceptable standard however, the way in which the information and clarity on the completion of different areas such as the various sections for the EPA have been conveyed in a slightly confusing manner or will often require clarification from my skills coach.
How much support do you receive from your employer?
4/5
If at any time I am stuck or have any difficulties, the people within my department try their best to assist me where possible. For assistance in terms of NVQ and the EPA, my skills coach is regularly available to provide any assistance I may require as well as having frequent meetings to keep track of my progress.
How much support do you receive from your training provider when working towards your qualifications?
1/5
During the second year of the apprenticeship the BTEC tutors offered limited support and lacked clarity when issuing tasks and assignments. Staff would sometimes force us to leave during our tutorial session we was entitled to at the end of the day because they wanted to leave. The tutors within the college lacked communication which lead to clashes with assignments which lead to us having an overstretched workload.
How well do you feel that your qualification (through your training provider) helps you to perform better in your role?
3/5
The knowledge and skills learnt from IPS has helped to provide some understanding when carrying out various tasks within my placement as well as giving me the confidence to approach new tasks that I may encounter within my role.
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
Within my work there are various social teams/events such as football on Thursdays to participate in. I am in the charity committee which allows me to work with various people across site and set up and run different types of events to generate funds for our partner charity of the Royal British Legion.
Recommendations & Advice
Would you recommend BAE Systems to a friend?
Yes
Why?
BAE Systems is an excellent place to work as the work carried out here is engaging and challenging with the staff here willing to provide a helping hand when required. BAE Systems works in a unique industry and has plenty of good options for career progression.
What tips or advice would you give to others applying to BAE Systems?
Stay open minded to all work that comes your way as something you might think doesn't interest you may be very engaging and interesting. Be willing to try your best on every task and take in as much information as you can. Don't feel intimidated by the nature of the work carried out here, if you have an interest in the industry or the type of products manufactured here, apply for the apprenticeship as most of the staff here are happy and willing to provide assistance and share their knowledge with you.
