Project Controls Review
at BAE Systems
Degree Apprenticeship
Project Management
Portsmouth
Review Submitted: March 2025
Overall Rating
4.1 /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
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Overview of Role
4/5
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Skills Development
3.6/5
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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
As a project controller, I help generate the schedule, plan and budget for projects. On a day-to-day basis I take part in a range of tasks and activities, varying from inputting resources, dates and figures to pulling cost reports to help team members stay on track with spending etc...
To what extent do you enjoy your programme?
4/5
To a very high extent, I would definitely recommend this apprenticeship to anyone. I am provided enough work to challenge myself, helping me to grow and develop which is vital; however, at the same time there is enough support from everyone around me for when I do struggle. This programme has been very enjoyable and the people that I have been lucky enough to share the experience with have definitely helped.
Skills Development
Have you learnt any new skills or developed existing skills?
4/5
Yes I have. Coming into a new corporate environment, it means that I have had to learn to adapt to the world around me. The apprenticeship has provided me with great chances to continue to grow as a person whilst professionally at the same time. My skillset has also grown, on the computer using new and already experience softwares.
Structure and Support
How well organised/structured is your programme?
4/5
I would say that the programme is well structured. I do one day at week at University online, where we cover a range of modules. In addition, twice a year, for 3 days I travel up to Blackpool for a face-to-face university event. When it comes to the work side, I would also say it is well structured. There are clear expectations of what I am expected to deliver.
How much support do you receive from your employer?
4/5
Me personally, I receive a great deal of support from my employer, both early careers and my current line manager. Early careers are always there if I have an issue and are very supportive and approachable. My line manager , ever since first talking to him has made me feel very supportive. "There is no such thing as a silly question", he would always repeat, making me aware that no matter what, if I need any support, he is always willing to provide it.
How much support do you receive from your training provider when working towards your qualifications?
3/5
Within university, the majority of my learning is online. We have two 3 hour lectures every Thursday, with a different lecturer for the morning session and afternoon session. Aside from the actual lecture time, we have access to their emails if we encounter any issues, in addition to if we need extra help with assignments for example.
How well do you feel that your qualification (through your training provider) helps you to perform better in your role?
3/5
So far, quite a few of the topics that we have covered during our university have been helpful and provided me with knowledge that I can take into the workplace. From the use of different breakdown structures to techniques, there is a lot that I can take from one and use into the other. However, at the same time, there are some lectures that teach information that may not be needed (or at least at this moment) and can come across as demotivating as it doesn't require engagement either.
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
Yes, so far within my time as an apprentice, I have been invited to a wide variety of networking events outside of work time . Whilst not being able to attend them all, I was able to attend the Christmas-do which was a great time to connect and engage with colleagues outside of work, developing a greater connection. In addition, a few other first year apprentices and I have come together to form a 5-a-sdie football team on a Thursday.
Recommendations & Advice
Would you recommend BAE Systems to a friend?
Yes
Why?
In my experience, I have found BAE a brilliant place to work. It hold a great positive work environment which encourages you to push yourself, developing to the best of your ability within your role. The people around you are all very friendly and supportive also, from the moment I stepped into my first day, I felt comforted. It is a very enjoyable place to work, offering great schemes, benefits and incentives also.
What tips or advice would you give to others applying to BAE Systems?
Do it. If you are debating whether to, I couldn't recommend it enough. As long as you have the correct ready to learn attitude at work, you will find that your development will excel. Be eager to learn and make sure to set a good reputation early on. If a volunteer is needed, even if you don't want to, it is worth doing, it will build a good name on your behalf, someone that is reliable and always eager to help.
