George joined us three years ago on a Project Manager Degree Apprenticeship at Portsmouth naval base.
‘I discovered the wide range of apprenticeships available at BAE Systems when some of the team came to my college to talk about them. The balance of university study and on the job experience sounded good, it was based in my home town of Portsmouth, and the opportunity to work alongside the Royal Navy was really exciting to me. It seemed like the ideal way of getting a qualification in a great job for a business that does a lot of good in the world.
I’m three years into a four-year apprenticeship, and I’m really enjoying it. Each year is spent in a different part of the business, so for example, I’ve had a year in warship support and a year in asset management. I’m building up a big network, not just by meeting people in those different functions but also because there’s a great graduate and apprentice community with lots of social activity. I really don’t think I’ve missed out on anything by choosing a degree apprenticeship rather than just studying at university, I’m with a great group of people and we have plenty of social time together.
We operate a flexible working day which I really enjoy and which gives me a great work-life balance. It’s not a set routine, I know what I need to achieve and I’m trusted to get on with it as I think best across my weekly hours. I spend a day at university every week as well, so I’m getting a great mix of classroom and on the job learning.
I’m excited by my future here, there’s always some amazing opportunities available, and once I’ve completed my apprenticeship, I’m looking forward to seeing where the skills I’m building take me next within the business. I’d love to work abroad, and once I complete my apprenticeship, I’ll be able to apply for those kind of opportunities, which is really exciting.
I think there can perhaps sometimes be a bit of a stigma around being an apprentice. That needs to change, because it’s definitely not the case here. It’s real responsibility from the very start working on some complex projects. I definitely recommend more people to look into degree apprenticeships because it's a unique and rewarding experience.’
Start your apprenticeship
With an apprenticeship you'll get it all. You’ll have real responsibilities on real projects from day one, playing a part in vital work that helps the overall security of the country. We'll fund your qualifications and give you all the support and guidance you need. With a wide range of meaningful and rewarding roles to choose from across different locations and parts of our business, there really is something for everyone.
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We want everyone here to feel valued and empowered to thrive. Who you are should never define what you can do. We believe when you bring together different people and different perspectives it inspires creativity and drives innovation. It helps us fulfil our purpose and it's integral to our culture. Everyone is heard and respected here.
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Great work deserves benefits that go beyond your salary. Whether it's health, wellbeing, or financial security for you and your family – our flexible benefits help you focus on what's important to you.
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