Machinist Review
at BAE Systems
Level 3 Apprenticeship
Mechanical Engineering
Barrow-in-Furness, UK
Review Submitted: March 2025
Overall Rating
3.3 /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
-
Overview of Role
2/5
-
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:
3/5
The apprenticeship is great so far from BAE systems itself however furness college so far has been far below the minimum standards I would prefer. Lack of staff, poor facilities, lack of tooling, lack of teaching, cramming of subjects and subject tests that are practically random chance. If there is a way to avoid furness college in the future I would strongly suggest that BAE take that route.
To what extent do you enjoy your programme?
3/5
The program is mostly positive as I know in a year I am moving from college and also I know I am going to be getting qualifications at the end of it.
Skills Development
Have you learnt any new skills or developed existing skills?
2/5
I have been learning skills when the tutors are present and are able to teach but otherwise the lack luster environment has affected my learning. When we are being taught in the workshop it is great but otherwise almost all the course is self taught leading me to wonder why I am forced to come to site.
Structure and Support
How well organised/structured is your programme?
2/5
From the BAE side of things it is OK there does feel as if there is unnecessary padding. On the furness college side of things the management is terrible at best and the course plans are bearly functioning. We are constantly behind because of this management which is causing stress and anxiety for me in my already chaotic life.
How much support do you receive from your employer?
4/5
My employer is great so far Im appreciating the amount of support they offer and the number of resources free for use.
How much support do you receive from your training provider when working towards your qualifications?
2/5
My training provider is lack luster at best but the tutors we have are great.
How well do you feel that your qualification (through your training provider) helps you to perform better in your role?
3/5
I feel the practical aspect of the training will be valuable but the other subjects are going to be of little use in my actual job 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
We have done outward bound and other courses outside of college time but so far nothing much has come up.
Recommendations & Advice
Would you recommend BAE Systems to a friend?
Yes
Why?
The job security and skills you can learn in the business are amazing along with the work to pay ratio as well.
What tips or advice would you give to others applying to BAE Systems?
Until furness college is removed from the equation be prepared for a stressful low quality first year. You just need to get through the first year.
