Manufacturing Engineering Technician Apprentice Level 4 Review

Item: Manufacturing Engineering Technician Apprentice Level 4 at BAE Systems
Rating: 4.9
Author: Anonymous

at BAE Systems

Higher Level Apprenticeship

Aeronautical and Aerospace Engineering

Samlesbury

Review Submitted: April 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 - 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

The start of the apprenticeship is based at the Academy for Skills and Knowledge, where units are undertaken to get an understanding of the processes involved in aerospace manufacturing and engineering, after which the apprenticeship consists of placements where you will have an active role in multiple areas of the business and gain an understanding of the work that goes on.

To what extent do you enjoy your programme?

5/5

Skills Development

Have you learnt any new skills or developed existing skills?

5/5

When I joined, I had some experience with engineering through school (such as using CAD), however very little of this experience translated to a role within a manufacturing environment (such as understanding and using machines like CNC mills and lathes). The company has done a good job of training me on these required skills, allowing me to gain a good understanding of the operations within a manufacturing environment.

Structure and Support

How well organised/structured is your programme?

4/5

The programme is well structured, however could be better explained. Having no background in aerospace/ manufacturing, I was at first unsure of the roles I may have during my apprenticeship, and was unaware of what job I may have after finishing my apprenticeship. For the first 5-6 months, it seemed as though many were reluctant to explain or were equally unsure, leading to some confusion. This is, however, much better understood when on placement, having a first hand view of the operations and roles within the business.

How much support do you receive from your employer?

5/5

support is readily available throughout the apprenticeship, and skills coaches, line managers and colleagues can all provide support when needed, as well as a dedicated early careers team.

How much support do you receive from your training provider when working towards your qualifications?

5/5

The HNC qualification training is delivered directly by BAE Systems, meaning that both the HNC and business training are very well integrated into the apprenticeship. 1 day per week is a dedicated training day where the HNC learning is delivered, and the delivery team provide constant support throughout all aspects of the qualification.

How well do you feel that your qualification (through your training provider) helps you to perform better in your role?

5/5

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

Many opportunities are available to engage with STEM outreach events, travel with the company and other such activities. At the start of the apprenticeship, all apprentices go on an 'outward bound' trip, a week-long trip full of teambuilding and enrichment activities.

Recommendations & Advice

Would you recommend BAE Systems to a friend?

Yes

Why?

Great opportunities for development and learning, working in a large scale and high-tech manufacturing environment, good pay structure and prospects, great pension and share scheme.