Technical Apprentice Review
at BAE Systems
Level 3 Apprenticeship
Aeronautical and Aerospace Engineering
Rochester, Kent
Review Submitted: March 2025
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!
3.5/5
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Overview of Role
3/5
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Skills Development
3.2/5
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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
Fault finding electronic items, reviewing schematics to figure out what's gone wrong and take a methodical approach in solving the issue. I also partake in obsolescence work, ensuring components are still available for build of units.
To what extent do you enjoy your programme?
3/5
I have really enjoyed the programme, having learnt lots and being eased into a working environment. One thing that I like is that you have different placements around site during second year, allowing you to experience different areas and to see what you are interested in.
Skills Development
Have you learnt any new skills or developed existing skills?
3/5
Gained many skills throughout my apprenticeship, including, fault finding, an understanding of electronic circuits, managing a project and soldering to IPC standard.
Structure and Support
How well organised/structured is your programme?
3/5
The overall structure is solid, 1st year is at college, second year has one day of college and the rest a working week and then 3rd year builds on this. However the colleges used can be problematic, sometimes not giving you ideal resources or time to complete them.
How much support do you receive from your employer?
3/5
The Employer gives support in the form of regular meetings, giving time to run through if you are doing well and if you need support, this was mostly in first and second year, however I feel supported enough.
How much support do you receive from your training provider when working towards your qualifications?
2/5
The training provider for first and second year can be a bit problematic, Whilst tutors can be asked questions sometimes they will dismiss you not giving desired feedback, this is also true but to a lesser extent of third year. Unfortunately despite giving advice on how to improve this the colleges refuse to change, this is seen by years above and below having the same issues we had.
How well do you feel that your qualification (through your training provider) helps you to perform better in your role?
4/5
The course that is provided covers a lot of generic electronics knowledge which is useful for the role, although this does depend on where you choose to work within the company, but this background knowledge still comes in handy no matter the 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
There are social events that are organised by the company occasionally. In addition there will likely be a trip to RBLI during the start of your first and second year, a charity organisation that helps veterans into work which was a really good experience. Fellow apprentices also usually organise outings every so often.
Recommendations & Advice
Would you recommend BAE Systems to a friend?
Yes
Why?
Overall I have really enjoyed my experience. Despite problems with the training providers, the actual job itself provides diverse experiences and I am always entertained. The site is filled with previous apprentice who can help guide you and overall everyone i've worked with is really supportive and happy to help.
What tips or advice would you give to others applying to BAE Systems?
Ask apprentices above you plenty of questions to help support you moving forward and don't be afraid to ask for help. You will likely have issues with the training providers but working with your fellow apprentices will lessen the impact.
