Pipe Fabricator Review
at BAE Systems
Level 3 Apprenticeship
Manufacturing
Barrow-in-Furness
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
-
Overview of Role
4/5
-
Skills Development
4.2/5
-
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
My role consists of fabricating pipework for naval reactor plant. This involves cutting, bending, preparing and cleaning pipework and setting up joints for welding. I work with other trades such as machinists and welders and collaborate quality control and manufacturing engineering disciplines to over come issues.
To what extent do you enjoy your programme?
3/5
Since starting onsite I have greatly enjoyed my programme, carrying out a wide variety of tasks in different work environments and meeting many new and friendly people.
Skills Development
Have you learnt any new skills or developed existing skills?
4/5
I established a base understanding of pipe fabrication at college before starting my apprenticeship. This information was repeated in the first year of my apprenticeship but was built on in the following years. I have learnt many trade specific skills both operating machinery and hand skills.
Structure and Support
How well organised/structured is your programme?
3/5
The programme is generally well structured with apprentices being provided with the skills they need before going on site and given subsequent refresher courses and supplementary training over the course of the programme.
How much support do you receive from your employer?
5/5
Every apprentice is allocated a skills coach who is our primary point of contact and responsible for ensuring we are on track to meet our targets with regular meetings and putting in place any interventions to help you get there.
How much support do you receive from your training provider when working towards your qualifications?
5/5
The skills coaches work tirelessly to ensure everything is in place to enable us to complete on time by providing resources and one-to-one sessions.
How well do you feel that your qualification (through your training provider) helps you to perform better in your role?
4/5
The qualification has provided me with all the skills and knowledge necessary to carry out my job role to the best of my ability.
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
The first year involves the Outward Bound outdoor pursuit team building exercise set over several days. There are also voluntary opportunities to be involved with the Local Apprentice Council as well as open days and STEM events with local schools.
Recommendations & Advice
Would you recommend BAE Systems to a friend?
Yes
Why?
BAE Systems offers a great deal of opportunities to pursue a wide variety of job roles with lots of potential for career progression.
What tips or advice would you give to others applying to BAE Systems?
Be open to options and take opportunities as and when they present themselves.
