Apprentice Project Management (Cost Estimating) Review
at BAE Systems
Degree Apprenticeship
Project Management
Barrow-in-Furness
Review Submitted: April 2025
Overall Rating
3.9 /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!
4/5
-
Overview of Role
4/5
-
Skills Development
3.6/5
-
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
I am part of the Commercial team in Cost Estimating. I move placements every six month providing experience throughout the whole Business Unit. Specifically looking at budgets and completing estimates for projects and programmes. I use a number of estimating methodology to build the appropriate estimate which is reviewed and accepted by our customer.
To what extent do you enjoy your programme?
4/5
I enjoy my apprenticeship especially working in the Commercial function as it provides a niche outlook on the business. I enjoy working with the contracts team to develop bids and projects.
Skills Development
Have you learnt any new skills or developed existing skills?
4/5
Yes! As an apprentice we follow the PMDA (Project Management Degree Apprentice) competencies, providing a framework to follow and develop Knowledge, Skills and Behaviours and meet the apprenticeship standards.
Structure and Support
How well organised/structured is your programme?
3/5
The programme is very well structured although there are always changes regarding apprentice paperwork or the expectations surrounding Off The Job and University.
How much support do you receive from your employer?
5/5
The employee is extremely supportive and works hard to ensure we have everything we need. They are adaptive to changing situations and have a large team to support apprentices.
How much support do you receive from your training provider when working towards your qualifications?
2/5
University Of Cumbria is okay, however, the teaching is sometimes off topics and it can be difficult to relate back. There is a lack of SQEP knowledge from the tutors which is noticeable when they are reading from power point slides. However, I understand the programme is new and this should improve in future years.
How well do you feel that your qualification (through your training provider) helps you to perform better in your role?
3/5
I sometimes struggle as i am commercial within my day-to-day job, and the degree is Project Management, however, there is no Commercial qualification.
Are there extra-curricular activities to get involved in at your work? (For example, any social activities, sports teams, or even professional networking events.)
5/5
Recommendations & Advice
Would you recommend BAE Systems to a friend?
Yes
Why?
BAE Systems is an extremely supportive company to work for and there is endless opportunities.
What tips or advice would you give to others applying to BAE Systems?
Look at the website and the Values and Mission of BAE.
