Apprentice Aircraft Electrician Review
at BAE Systems
Level 3 Apprenticeship
Electrician
Samlesbury
Review Submitted: April 2025
Overall Rating
3.8 /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
3.2/5
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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
Apprenticeship involves practical aircraft electrical training, working on looms, fibre optics, avionics. Experiencing a wide range of electrical manufacturing techniques. Each day involves working on a specific job, following engineering documents and instructions precisely. You are required to follow Health and safety regulations at all times.
There are 2 breaks and a lunch. Start time 7:30, finishing at 17:30. 4 days a week.
Alongside practical work, there is a day spent learning the core requirements for the engineering qualification.
There are 2 breaks and a lunch. Start time 7:30, finishing at 17:30. 4 days a week.
Alongside practical work, there is a day spent learning the core requirements for the engineering qualification.
To what extent do you enjoy your programme?
4/5
I enjoy learning new skills, experiencing a wide range of workshop locations and their corresponding jobs/tasks. Working alongside and learning from qualified, professional electricians with years of experience. The college day is less enjoyable as it's mostly school/a-level equivalent work in a similar school like environment. There can be occasional downtime between jobs on the shop floor, which can be difficult to avoid. Being proactive and asking for work helps prevent a drop in motivation.
Skills Development
Have you learnt any new skills or developed existing skills?
4/5
I have developed a wide range of skills and manufacturing techniques. In the first year of my apprenticeship I learned Computer aided design, hands on fitting techniques, electrical manufacturing - circuit boards and aircraft specific tasks such as lifting/jacking, power systems and hydraulics.
Second year and onwards - Specialized learning around chosen specialism - Electrician. Looming, fibre optic assembly, avionics/boxes assembly.
Also learned social skills, how to approach professional work environments, communication etc.
Second year and onwards - Specialized learning around chosen specialism - Electrician. Looming, fibre optic assembly, avionics/boxes assembly.
Also learned social skills, how to approach professional work environments, communication etc.
Structure and Support
How well organised/structured is your programme?
3/5
In some instances the organisation can be fairly poor. In terms of the college learning, there is a lack of communication between staff and the apprentices. Sometimes we weren't sure who we had teaching the class. We occasionally get moved around the building, trying to find a room that hasn't been booked despite already being assigned a room.
How much support do you receive from your employer?
4/5
BAE is very supportive of its apprentices. They provide an employee assistance program and the line manager responsible ensures everyone receives the necessary support to be successful throughout their apprenticeship. This support includes learning adjustment plans, mental health support through the EAP, and altered working hours. The main thing is to voice your concerns and issues, and they will make efforts to help. BAE staff are open minded and approachable.
How much support do you receive from your training provider when working towards your qualifications?
3/5
Personally I don't have much experience with support in regards to qualifications. However they do provide learning adjustment plans depending on the apprentices needs. Such as extended deadlines for assignments. Some of the college staff offer 1 to 1 sessions to cover specific topics, or prepare for an exam. There are past papers and additional support content provided through the BAE canvas webpage/app. Some assignments have little or outdated informative content provided on the BAE canvas webpage/app, making research and referencing challenging at times.
How well do you feel that your qualification (through your training provider) helps you to perform better in your role?
3/5
There are essential topics such as health and safety, productivity and human factors training which is mandatory. Whilst I understand the need to cover these topics, there are a lot of areas which aren't applicable to my role specifically. I believe most learnt content is essentially forgotten when moving out into the business as a full time manufacturing employee. The qualification however, does helps if you choose to go further than just working on the shop floor, aiming for higher level education and potentially working in management roles in the future. It all depends on your personal aspirations.
Are there extra-curricular activities to get involved in at your work? (For example, any social activities, sports teams, or even professional networking events.)
3/5
BAE holds web seminars covering various topics with industry professionals and sometimes in person events. These events provide opportunities for networking and learning about other areas of the business.
I have limited knowledge of any social activities or sports teams.
I have limited knowledge of any social activities or sports teams.
Recommendations & Advice
Would you recommend BAE Systems to a friend?
Yes
Why?
Wide range of possibilities, starting as an apprentice opens up many avenues for future career options. The work is often interesting and can be complicated, which encourages engagement with others to overcome issues. The work can give you a sense of satisfaction, that you were involved in important jobs, essential to the success of the business. BAE aims to use the latest technology and is at the forefront of manufacturing advancements which is exciting. Also there is a chance to get hands on with an aircraft.
What tips or advice would you give to others applying to BAE Systems?
Show that you are interested in the company, aircraft and future technology by researching BAE and their ongoing projects. Prepare questions that show intrigue, present yourself professionally, and have a can do/optimistic attitude. Any experience working with people as a team is useful, especially if you had responsibilities.
