Project Controller Review
at BAE Systems
Degree Apprenticeship
Project Management
Portsmouth
Review Submitted: April 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
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Overview of Role
4/5
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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:
3/5
As a Project Controller, my role involves collating and analysing data to monitor the progress of the project and to ensure any decisions made by the Project Manager are as informed as possible. On a day-to-day basis this will often involve answering emails to resolve any project progress related queries. From a monthly perspective it will revolve around preparing everything for the monthly reviews (a multi-week task).
To what extent do you enjoy your programme?
3/5
I enjoy working with the majority of my colleagues, and get on well with all the other apprentices on the scheme. The work can be quite repetitive at times though, so that limits the enjoyment of the job some what.
Skills Development
Have you learnt any new skills or developed existing skills?
4/5
My MS Excel and Project skills have greatly improved during the apprenticeship. I have also become far better at communicating in a work setting - specifically when tailoring my language depending on the circumstances. My time management skills have also developed. This is on top of the obvious development of my project management knowledge in general.
Structure and Support
How well organised/structured is your programme?
3/5
The university side of the programme seems well structured. The modules are clearly laid out and have been approved by experienced professionals. The work side however could be better - there still seems to be some uncertainty over exactly when the course will end, and over the assessments that will take place before that point.
How much support do you receive from your employer?
4/5
We have our tri-monthly reviews that check in on how we are progressing and how we are feeling on a range of issues. There are also apprenticeship representatives who can raise issues we have with the company. In general I feel it is not hard to reach out and receive support when required.
How much support do you receive from your training provider when working towards your qualifications?
4/5
The College (training provider) is supportive. The lecturers are always willing to answer questions and point you in the right direction if they are unable to. There are also College services that allow you to have your work reviewed independently.
How well do you feel that your qualification (through your training provider) helps you to perform better in your role?
3/5
I feel like the qualification we are working towards focuses on Project Management from a more general viewpoint - looking at the principles and thought process that must be applied to manage effectively. The work itself focuses more on actual tasks and duties that must be completed and is more specific to whatever project you are working on. On the whole these elements mesh well together.
Are there extra-curricular activities to get involved in at your work? (For example, any social activities, sports teams, or even professional networking events.)
2/5
I believe there are extra-curricular activities that you can get involved with but I don't believe these are apprenticeship specific and in truth they are not very well advertised from my perspective.
Recommendations & Advice
Would you recommend BAE Systems to a friend?
Yes
Why?
I think the apprenticeship allows you to work towards a good degree from a well respected institution whilst also gaining experience in a good working environment. This combination of benefits would be worth pursuing for many people I believe.
What tips or advice would you give to others applying to BAE Systems?
Try and research the role you're applying for so you have an idea of the work you are likely to be doing, why you think you will suit that role, and how your presence could add value to the company.
