Electronics Hardware Apprentice Review
at BAE Systems
Degree Apprenticeship
Electronic and Electrical Engineering
Rochester, Kent
Review Submitted: March 2026
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
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Overview of Role
5/5
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Skills Development
4.8/5
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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:
5/5
I help create circuit boards. This involves designing the board, calculating component values, selecting the best components for the job, 3D modelling the circuit, printing/ordering the board, populating and soldering the components on, and testing the board. This also involves documenting the processes taken and more.
To what extent do you enjoy your programme?
5/5
I really enjoy learning about how the small circuits fit into the bigger picture, especially of products you don't see in your day to day life, and love being part of such an important company. It's fascinating to learn about circuitry and everyone is friendly, happy to share knowledge, and willing to lend a hand with anything.
Skills Development
Have you learnt any new skills or developed existing skills?
5/5
I've developed my circuit knowledge from basic LEDs and resistors to more complex components such as relays, microcontrollers, MOSFETs and more. I've also developed my communication skills as BAE is a large company with lots of people who can help you.
I've learnt a lot about circuit theory, product regulations and the processes to physically create circuitry.
I've learnt a lot about circuit theory, product regulations and the processes to physically create circuitry.
Structure and Support
How well organised/structured is your programme?
5/5
How much support do you receive from your employer?
5/5
BAE Systems are extremely supportive. They give us time to complete our university work in work hours when needed and give feedback when asked. We're always sent opportunities we can get involved in and access to support when needed.
How much support do you receive from your training provider when working towards your qualifications?
4/5
Our course leader and module leaders have been good at providing feedback and advice when we need it. We also have frequent reviews to discuss our progress or any concerns.
How well do you feel that your qualification (through your training provider) helps you to perform better in your role?
5/5
So far, almost everything we have learnt at university can be applied to my role. We've learnt about design processes, safety, modelling software, product markets and more. It's extremely helpful to be able to apply what you learn at university to the workplace and reinforce your knowledge.
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
There's so many extra-curriculars.
You have opportunities to represent and join employee run communities supporting people with disabilities, veterans, women in engineering and more. There are a handful of clubs including DnD, crafts and sports.
You can also become ambassadors for STEM, get involved with the early careers team and run events for students.
There are frequent events inside and outside of work hours such as cake sales, competitions, dress up days and quizzes.
There's a lot of charity work you can get involved in and individual offices within the company organise social events such as going out for dinner.
You have opportunities to represent and join employee run communities supporting people with disabilities, veterans, women in engineering and more. There are a handful of clubs including DnD, crafts and sports.
You can also become ambassadors for STEM, get involved with the early careers team and run events for students.
There are frequent events inside and outside of work hours such as cake sales, competitions, dress up days and quizzes.
There's a lot of charity work you can get involved in and individual offices within the company organise social events such as going out for dinner.
Recommendations & Advice
Would you recommend BAE Systems to a friend?
Yes
Why?
Overall, my time at BAE Systems has been an honour. I'm always learning new things, being trusted to help complete tasks and always treated as an equal. It's fascinating to learn more and I always look forward to what the next day brings.
What tips or advice would you give to others applying to BAE Systems?
Just be yourself.
BAE isn't looking for a skilled robot, they're looking for a passionate person who's willing to learn to integrate within the teams. Share your passion.
BAE isn't looking for a skilled robot, they're looking for a passionate person who's willing to learn to integrate within the teams. Share your passion.
