Degree Apprentice Nuclear Engineer Review
at BAE Systems
Degree Apprenticeship
Engineering
Barrow-in-Furness
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!
3.5/5
-
Overview of Role
5/5
-
Skills Development
3.4/5
-
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
During the course of my apprenticeship I have been rotated around numerous placements in the business, each covering a new and different aspect of the nuclear manufacturing process which takes place on site. A days work will vary depending on the placement but the primary objective as an apprentice is to learn, whist I was given my own projects to carry out, initially they were not particularly advanced or technical because I was not yet qualified. This remained for the first year until I was better up to speed.
To what extent do you enjoy your programme?
4/5
Initially I was a little unsure, I wasn't doing much which really felt like what was labelled on the description of nuclear engineer. Due to being an apprentice in a fairly advanced level environment there will inevitably be a limit to the work you can do, therefore there can be some quiet spells. During these I found it really valuable to get out and spend some time with other departments to learn more about what they did. You have to really try and take responsibility for your own time and use it in a way that's worthwhile for you.
Skills Development
Have you learnt any new skills or developed existing skills?
5/5
Since the start of my apprenticeship I have learnt numerous new skills and habits which have benefited me. The scale and nature of the business makes clear communication essential, as a result I am constantly out and about talking to different departments and people establishing clear requirements and needs. I've also had various chances to formulate documents to a professional standard along with what the industry expects of these documents.
Structure and Support
How well organised/structured is your programme?
4/5
Company side this aspect is exceptional, within my scheme I have several points of contact in early careers who are always there to support. The placement timetables are well structured and clear, you also get lots of support gathering evidence and competencies for the End Point Assessment at the end of the apprenticeship. The only reason I don't give this a 10 would be the university aspect which lets it down, which the university provided a good level of support the structure and planning of modules is relatively poor.
How much support do you receive from your employer?
5/5
Lots of support, all the placement managers I have had have been great and really understanding of my other responsibilities as an apprentice. Early careers also provides numerous points of contact whom I can get in touch with in case of any issues or worries. Monthly check in sessions are also held to ensure everyone is doing well in their placements accompanied by feedback.
How much support do you receive from your training provider when working towards your qualifications?
3/5
The supporting staff at the college are really good, they are always there to try and solve any arising problems you have. The only issue I have with the college aspect are some of the modules which are poorly taught
How well do you feel that your qualification (through your training provider) helps you to perform better in your role?
2/5
I have yet to use anything I learned in university in my role, in fact it's probably the other way round. I gained practise presenting in the workplace which enabled me to better present an assignment.
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
Lots of out of work socials to get involved with.
Recommendations & Advice
Would you recommend BAE Systems to a friend?
Yes
Why?
They provide an exemplary amount of support which enables you to focus on learning what you need to thrive in the industry. My only bit of advice would be not to expect too much early on, you are mostly there to learn so don't worry about how much "work" you are doing early on and focus in settling in and learning about the company and how it operates. Get out and about and talk to people, go out of your way to get involved in what you can when your placement is quiet.
What tips or advice would you give to others applying to BAE Systems?
Be original, don't try to be someone you are not just for the sake of the interview. They are looking for real people who are eager to learn and are open to change.
