Degree Apprentice Software Engineer Review
at BAE Systems
Degree Apprenticeship
Software Engineering
Samlesbury
Review Submitted: March 2025
Overall Rating
4.7 /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!
5/5
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Overview of Role
5/5
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Skills Development
4.4/5
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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:
5/5
I complete any tasks assigned to me, which can include implementing new features and bug fixes. I attend a daily scrum that lasts 15 minutes were the team come together to provide updates on their tasks.
To what extent do you enjoy your programme?
5/5
I have thoroughly enjoyed the programme, as it has given me the opportunity to work alongside professionals in my dream career to develop my skills and become the best I can be as a software engineer, gaining on the job experience whilst I complete my degree.
Skills Development
Have you learnt any new skills or developed existing skills?
5/5
I have learnt lots of new technical and personal skills, such as working with an Agile development methodology, working to sprints, communicating with my team, confidence and courage. I have developed existing skills in Python and Java which have made me a confident programmer.
Structure and Support
How well organised/structured is your programme?
5/5
I feel it is very well structured. As an apprentice, I have great communication with Early Careers to keep track of my progress through 12-Weekly Learner Progress Reviews. I attend University two days a week for the degree side of the apprenticeship, and then work on placement 3 days a week for the on-the-job experience.
How much support do you receive from your employer?
5/5
Early Careers are very supportive and have helped with any issues or concerns I have raised in the path, always providing a solution. My line manager and colleagues are also very supportive in my day to day work life, helping with any issues I come across in my work.
How much support do you receive from your training provider when working towards your qualifications?
2/5
The support from the training provider has been varied. The teaching standard of some lecturers is poor, whereas others provide a great teaching experience. When issues are raised to the University, it has most often been ignored or dealt with poorly.
How well do you feel that your qualification (through your training provider) helps you to perform better in your role?
5/5
The modules we learn at University have helped me in my role quite a bit, as they have allowed me to gain a deeper understanding into the tasks I perform daily, and at some points have allowed me to transfer my knowledge to suggest new ideas in 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.)
5/5
There are plenty of stretch assignment opportunities available, which I have taken part in, as well as the opportunity to become a STEM Ambassador. There is always some volunteering event going on also, such as the Keswick 2 Barrow fundraiser walk in May I'll be taking part in.
Recommendations & Advice
Would you recommend BAE Systems to a friend?
Yes
Why?
From the first day I began at the company I felt welcomed, each team I've worked on has always been very supportive and has allowed me to learn so much. I feel very secure in my job here and would highly recommend to anyone looking for a career in STEM.
What tips or advice would you give to others applying to BAE Systems?
Research the company, what project's they have taken on and the products they produce, and take advantage of the early careers opportunities they provide.
