WITH just weeks to go before applications close, would-be apprentices of all ages are being urged to apply for roles offered by BAE Systems in Barrow.

The submarine designer and manufacturer has set out ambitious plans to be the worlds' best, and is looking for employees who will pay a central part in achieving that ambition.

There are already over 900 apprentices working at the Barrow shipyard. The range of opportunities on offer this year might come as a surprise.

"I think there's still a misconception that we're only able to offer shop floor, engineering-related roles, whereas the chances are that we have opportunities across almost every kind of career," Michael Harris, BAE Systems education partnerships advisor, says.

"Whilst we continue to offer apprenticeships in some of the more traditional trades you would think about when considering the construction of a submarine, such as welding, steelwork, electrical, design, etc.  Over recent years, the areas you could be working in as an apprentice has expanded massively, we now offer apprenticeships in a much broader range of business-related areas such as Project Management, Supply Chain and Cost Estimating, amongst many others.

“Within our Engineering Degree Apprenticeship alone, there are more than a dozen different areas of engineering you could be specialising in."

The chance to learn alongside some of the best in the business is a chance not to be missed, and the apprenticeship programmes run by BAE Systems are recognised as some of the best in the industry.

BAE Systems in Barrow is looking to recruit over 200 Intermediate/Advanced Apprentices.

"With our Early Careers team looking after all our apprentices’ welfare needs, alongside our thriving apprentice council, joining the business straight from school isn’t as daunting as some might think, Michael added.

"Our apprentices feel part of a team from the moment they join. With close to 1000 apprentices and graduates currently onsite, the chance to get advice and guidance from those who have already experienced life here is always on offer."

After A Levels, university might be the favoured route for some, but what if you could study for a degree, awarded by a top university, gain invaluable work experience – and earn too?

More than 130 Higher/Degree Apprentices are needed in submarines, to work across a wide range of disciplines. As part of the programme, the chance to follow a degree course or similar may be available.

"For many people, graduating from university with a recognised qualification is still seen as the pinnacle of academic aspiration," Michael said. "For the delivery of its Higher/Degree Apprenticeship programme, BAE Systems utilises a wide range of excellent universities and educational institutions across the UK.

“Achieving a qualification from one of these institutions, whilst also working and earning, is such a fantastic opportunity. The combination of industry experience and academia really can provide people with the platform to excel in their careers."

This year, over 30 graduates will be recruited to join the company's newly revamped Graduate Accelerate Programme, offering yet another entry point to join BAE Systems.

Our Graduate programme attracts gifted students from universities all over the country, and is regularly rated amongst the top 50 graduate employers in the UK.

"Over many years, BAE Systems has built a reputation as one of the top destinations in the country - not just for apprenticeships but also for graduates. The calibre of the apprentices and graduates we are able to attract is a reflection of the quality of the programmes we offer, and the career opportunities they can provide to people.

"One thing I regularly get asked is: 'how old do you have to be to be an apprentice or graduate?' There seems to be a common misconception that you have to have be a recent school, college or university leaver to apply.

“I would like to say, whatever your age, whether you've worked in the industry for years or if you've never even seen a submarine - if you've got the qualifications needed to apply, then we would love to hear from you. You are never too old to write yourself into the rich history of submarine construction in this country."

Applications for Advanced and Higher Apprenticeships need to be submitted by February 28, for a potential start date in the business of September 2020.

Applications for Graduate ‘Accelerate’ Programme are welcome at any time during the year.

Good luck!