Degree Apprentice Project Management Review
at BAE Systems
Degree Apprenticeship
Project Management
Barrow-in-Furness
Review Submitted: April 2026
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!
4/5
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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:
4/5
As a Degree Project Management Apprentice at BAE Systems, my role combines project support on placements (rotated once a year) with academic study at University of Cumbria. I help plan, coordinate and deliver projects within a complex and regulated engineering environment while developing professional project management skills.
Day to day, this typically involves:
Supporting project planning, scheduling and cost tracking
Updating project documentation and reports
Attending meetings and capturing actions and progress updates
Coordinating with engineers, suppliers, and stakeholders
Monitoring risks, issues, and project milestones
Applying PM methodologies and tools alongside your degree learning
Day to day, this typically involves:
Supporting project planning, scheduling and cost tracking
Updating project documentation and reports
Attending meetings and capturing actions and progress updates
Coordinating with engineers, suppliers, and stakeholders
Monitoring risks, issues, and project milestones
Applying PM methodologies and tools alongside your degree learning
To what extent do you enjoy your programme?
4/5
I enjoy the programme overall, particularly the opportunity to develop my skills and gain exposure to a professional project environment. However, I do sometimes struggle with the lack of consistent work and not always having the opportunity to fully get my teeth into a project, which can limit how engaged and challenged I feel at times.
Skills Development
Have you learnt any new skills or developed existing skills?
4/5
Yes, I have developed both new and existing skills through the programme. I’ve built a stronger foundation in project management principles, including planning, scheduling, risk tracking and stakeholder communication. I’ve also improved my organisational skills, attention to detail, and confidence when working in a professional environment. Additionally, applying what I learn through my degree to real workplace contexts has helped strengthen my problem‑solving, teamwork and communication skills, even when opportunities for hands-on project work are limited.
Structure and Support
How well organised/structured is your programme?
4/5
The programme is generally well organised and structured, with a clear framework that supports both academic study and workplace development. However, it would be improved by having more say in where we go for placements and better insight into what each area involves. Having this visibility would help apprentices plan more effectively and make informed decisions about career direction and development within the business.
How much support do you receive from your employer?
4/5
I feel well supported overall by my employer, particularly by colleagues and my immediate team when I need guidance or help.
How much support do you receive from your training provider when working towards your qualifications?
4/5
I receive okay support from my training provider when working towards my qualifications. They provide the necessary guidance and resources to meet requirements, but the level of support could be more proactive and consistent to better support progress and development.
How well do you feel that your qualification (through your training provider) helps you to perform better in your role?
4/5
I feel that my qualification does help me perform better in my role, particularly by providing a solid understanding of project management theory, terminology, and best practice. It supports my confidence when contributing to discussions, completing documentation and understanding the wider project lifecycle. However, its impact is sometimes limited by the lack of consistent hands‑on project work, meaning there isn’t always the opportunity to fully apply what I’m learning in a practical setting.
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
Yes, there are many extra activities we can get involved in, if we wish too.
Recommendations & Advice
Would you recommend BAE Systems to a friend?
Yes
Why?
Yes, I would recommend the programme to a friend, as it provides a valuable opportunity to gain qualifications alongside real workplace experience within a large organisation.
What tips or advice would you give to others applying to BAE Systems?
I would advise others applying to BAE Systems to be proactive, open to learning and patient. Take initiative where possible, ask questions and try to get involved in different areas to broaden your experience. It’s also helpful to manage expectations early on, as work levels can vary, and some placements may be more hands‑on than others. Making the most of available opportunities, building relationships with colleagues, and staying organised with both work and study commitments will help you get the most out of the programme.
Graduate Aerospace Integration Engineer
at BAE Systems
- Graduate Scheme
- Prestwick, Ayrshire and Arran
-
4.5
