Production apprentice Review
at BBC
Level 3 Apprenticeship
Journalism and Publishing
Cambridgeshire
Review Submitted: April 2025
Overall Rating
4.9 /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
-
Overview of Role
5/5
-
Skills Development
4.8/5
-
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
As a Production Apprentice, I support producers and presenters throughout the production process. It's a hands-on role where I’m learning loads, developing creative skills, and getting real experience behind the scenes.
Before a Show or Recording (Pre-Production):
I help with research, finding guests or contributors, and putting together running orders or scripts. Sometimes that means drafting questions for interviews, organising call sheets, or helping plan a segment for a live show.
During Production:
I assist in the studio—whether that’s timing segments, making sure contributors are ready, or helping operate the desk. I might be logging interviews, keeping track of timings during a live show, or cueing audio. When it’s busy, I get involved wherever I’m needed.
After the Show (Post-Production):
I edit audio using software like Adobe Audition or Startrack, tidy up interviews, and add wildtrack or music beds to make things sound polished. Sometimes I’m asked to cut clips for BBC Sounds or help prepare trails and promos for broadcast.
Creating Digital & Social Content:
I also help make content for TikTok, Instagram, or BBC Sounds—whether that’s short videos, audiograms, or graphics to promote the shows I work on. I make sure everything follows BBC brand guidelines and fits the tone of the platform.
Before a Show or Recording (Pre-Production):
I help with research, finding guests or contributors, and putting together running orders or scripts. Sometimes that means drafting questions for interviews, organising call sheets, or helping plan a segment for a live show.
During Production:
I assist in the studio—whether that’s timing segments, making sure contributors are ready, or helping operate the desk. I might be logging interviews, keeping track of timings during a live show, or cueing audio. When it’s busy, I get involved wherever I’m needed.
After the Show (Post-Production):
I edit audio using software like Adobe Audition or Startrack, tidy up interviews, and add wildtrack or music beds to make things sound polished. Sometimes I’m asked to cut clips for BBC Sounds or help prepare trails and promos for broadcast.
Creating Digital & Social Content:
I also help make content for TikTok, Instagram, or BBC Sounds—whether that’s short videos, audiograms, or graphics to promote the shows I work on. I make sure everything follows BBC brand guidelines and fits the tone of the platform.
To what extent do you enjoy your programme?
5/5
I am really enjoy my programme—it’s been such a rewarding and exciting experience so far.
One of the things I enjoy most is how hands-on it is. I’m not just observing—I’m actively involved in producing content that goes out to real audiences. Whether it’s cutting audio for BBC Sounds, running a live desk, or creating social content, I feel like I’m making a genuine contribution.
It’s also been great working on such a variety of projects. Every week looks different, and I love how creative the role can be—especially when I get to pitch ideas or bring a social video to life.
On top of that, the support from both my team and fellow apprentices has been amazing. There’s a real sense of community, and I always feel encouraged to keep learning and pushing myself.
One of the things I enjoy most is how hands-on it is. I’m not just observing—I’m actively involved in producing content that goes out to real audiences. Whether it’s cutting audio for BBC Sounds, running a live desk, or creating social content, I feel like I’m making a genuine contribution.
It’s also been great working on such a variety of projects. Every week looks different, and I love how creative the role can be—especially when I get to pitch ideas or bring a social video to life.
On top of that, the support from both my team and fellow apprentices has been amazing. There’s a real sense of community, and I always feel encouraged to keep learning and pushing myself.
Skills Development
Have you learnt any new skills or developed existing skills?
5/5
Audio editing, Studio operations, Social media production, Planning and booking
Structure and Support
How well organised/structured is your programme?
5/5
Overall, I’d say the programme is well structured and offers a good balance of on-the-job experience and training. There’s a clear structure in place with training blocks from the provider (like Bauer Academy) and regular support from BBC mentors, line managers, and the early careers team. I always know what I’m working towards with my apprenticeship qualification, and I’ve had clear guidance on the types of evidence and projects I need to complete.
How much support do you receive from your employer?
5/5
I’ve felt really well supported by my employer throughout the apprenticeship.
From day one, I was given a clear induction and introduced to the wider team, which helped me settle in quickly. My line manager checks in regularly, and I always feel comfortable asking questions or bringing up anything I’m unsure about. There’s a real sense that people want me to succeed.
The BBC also has an apprentice community, which has been a massive source of support. Whether it’s through catch-ups with other apprentices, apprentice-specific training sessions, or opportunities to get involved in wider projects (like events, TikToks, or social media roles), I always feel included and encouraged to grow.
There’s also support from the early careers team and my training provider, who are both really approachable and make sure I’m on track with my coursework.
From day one, I was given a clear induction and introduced to the wider team, which helped me settle in quickly. My line manager checks in regularly, and I always feel comfortable asking questions or bringing up anything I’m unsure about. There’s a real sense that people want me to succeed.
The BBC also has an apprentice community, which has been a massive source of support. Whether it’s through catch-ups with other apprentices, apprentice-specific training sessions, or opportunities to get involved in wider projects (like events, TikToks, or social media roles), I always feel included and encouraged to grow.
There’s also support from the early careers team and my training provider, who are both really approachable and make sure I’m on track with my coursework.
How much support do you receive from your training provider when working towards your qualifications?
5/5
I receive a good level of support from my training provider while working towards my qualification.
We have regular training blocks where we’re taught key skills related to production—like editing, storytelling, compliance, and working on briefs. These sessions are interactive and really useful for building both creative and technical knowledge that I can apply straight away in my role. There are also clear milestones and a portfolio system in place, which keeps everything organised and helps me see how I’m progressing.
We have regular training blocks where we’re taught key skills related to production—like editing, storytelling, compliance, and working on briefs. These sessions are interactive and really useful for building both creative and technical knowledge that I can apply straight away in my role. There are also clear milestones and a portfolio system in place, which keeps everything organised and helps me see how I’m progressing.
How well do you feel that your qualification (through your training provider) helps you to perform better in your role?
5/5
I think the qualification has definitely helped me perform better in my role.
The training covers real-world skills that I can apply straight away—like planning content, editing audio, understanding compliance, and creating audience-focused media. It’s not just theory; everything we learn connects directly to the kind of work I’m doing day to day at the BBC.
The training covers real-world skills that I can apply straight away—like planning content, editing audio, understanding compliance, and creating audience-focused media. It’s not just theory; everything we learn connects directly to the kind of work I’m doing day to day at the BBC.
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
One of the things I really enjoy about working at the BBC is the range of social and professional opportunities available. As an apprentice, I’m part of a community of other apprentices, and we regularly have networking events and social meetups. It’s a great chance to connect with others in different areas of the BBC and share experiences.
In addition to that, there are also professional events like the ones organised for Independent Venue Week or festivals that BBC Music Introducing takes part in, where apprentices get the chance to attend and contribute to live events, whether that’s through social media, production, or behind-the-scenes support.
In addition to that, there are also professional events like the ones organised for Independent Venue Week or festivals that BBC Music Introducing takes part in, where apprentices get the chance to attend and contribute to live events, whether that’s through social media, production, or behind-the-scenes support.
Recommendations & Advice
Would you recommend BBC to a friend?
Yes
Why?
Firstly, the opportunities for growth at the BBC are incredible. As an apprentice, I’ve had the chance to develop skills across different areas of production, from radio and podcasting to social media and live events. The variety of roles and projects means that every day brings new challenges, and there’s always room to learn and grow.
Secondly, the support network is fantastic. Whether it’s my colleagues, the early careers team, or other apprentices, everyone is so supportive and willing to help each other succeed. The BBC really invests in its people, offering training, mentorship, and a clear path for progression.
I also love how inclusive and collaborative the environment is. It’s an amazing place to meet creative people from all walks of life, and you get to work on projects that genuinely make a difference and reach a wide audience.
Secondly, the support network is fantastic. Whether it’s my colleagues, the early careers team, or other apprentices, everyone is so supportive and willing to help each other succeed. The BBC really invests in its people, offering training, mentorship, and a clear path for progression.
I also love how inclusive and collaborative the environment is. It’s an amazing place to meet creative people from all walks of life, and you get to work on projects that genuinely make a difference and reach a wide audience.
What tips or advice would you give to others applying to BBC?
Be yourself and show your passion :) Definitely be open to learning and network and get advice from current apprentices.
