EDAS aerospace apprentice Review
at BAE Systems
Degree Apprenticeship
Aeronautical and Aerospace Engineering
Brough, East Riding of Yorkshire
Review Submitted: April 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!
3.5/5
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Overview of Role
4/5
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Skills Development
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:
4/5
As an aerospace engineering degree apprentice, I complete approximately 6-month placements across various departments such as design, structures, and systems integration, working on projects like Typhoon, Tornado, and Hawk. These placements provide valuable hands-on experience across different stages of the engineering lifecycle. Alongside my work, I attend university one day a week to study for a BEng in Aerospace Engineering, accredited towards IEng registration. Each university day consists of two lectures covering separate modules, with each module typically assessed through a combination of assignments, exams, or group work. In addition to the degree, I also work towards a Level 4 qualification in aerospace engineering, which is based on job-related experience and structured knowledge-based assessments.
To what extent do you enjoy your programme?
3/5
I do enjoy the programme — it’s engaging, and the university work is interesting. Some of the Level 4 knowledge questions can feel repetitive, but the experience-based write-ups are valuable and reflective. There are also enjoyable opportunities to travel, and the food at Brough is genuinely great! Most the placement work we do is really interesting and engaging, however some can lack some work preventing you from keeping busy.
Skills Development
Have you learnt any new skills or developed existing skills?
4/5
I’ve developed a wide range of skills including communication with customers and colleagues, taking initiative in the workplace, improving academic performance, and enhancing my report writing and technical documentation abilities. A core principle I’ve learned is around professional standards and how to conduct and portray yourself in a corporate setting.
Structure and Support
How well organised/structured is your programme?
2/5
The overall structure of the apprenticeship is good, but there are areas that need improvement. Communication between upper management and placement supervisors can be limited, and rotation planning at Brough lacks the structure seen at Warton. Additionally, communication between the college and BAE can sometimes be disjointed. More consistency and coordination at the lower levels would enhance the experience.
How much support do you receive from your employer?
5/5
BAE provide a great deal of support to apprentices, from inclusive learning adjustments to general wellbeing. They are extremely accommodating and genuinely aim to bring out the best in you. Support is strong point.
How much support do you receive from your training provider when working towards your qualifications?
4/5
The support received from the training provider is significantly better than what you’d typically expect at a traditional university. Smaller cohort sizes, compared to uni, mean lecturers can offer personalised learning experiences, ensuring students are well supported and able to achieve their best. Their inclusive approach and dedication play a key role in why achieving a first-class degree is common on this scheme.
How well do you feel that your qualification (through your training provider) helps you to perform better in your role?
4/5
The university modules often relate directly to placement work, especially topics like CAD and professional standards. Some content is more general and may not be used day-to-day, but it’s still fundamental to understanding engineering principles. Overall, the qualification does a good job of preparing you for the workplace.
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 activities available. Apprentices have an Apprentice Council that organises social and development events. The company is also involved in the STEM Ambassador programme, and there are regular professional networking opportunities through union reps, registration support teams, and engagement sessions with business leaders.
Recommendations & Advice
Would you recommend BAE Systems to a friend?
Yes
Why?
I would recommend BAE to a friend due to the highly competitive pay, strong apprenticeship scheme, and clear progression opportunities. The company provides excellent support, real project involvement, and a solid foundation for long-term career growth in engineering.
What tips or advice would you give to others applying to BAE Systems?
Make sure you understand which site you’re applying to — Warton is the main aerospace engineering hub, while Brough is a satellite site with fewer engineering facilities but still offers great opportunities. Both sites are valuable, though Warton appears to have a more structured apprenticeship setup.
