British multinational arms, security and aerospace company BAE Systems have committed to increasing their apprentice and graduate hires by 43% in 2023. This increase will amount to more than 2,600 apprentices and graduates in the upcoming year within various departments such as cyber security, aerospace engineering, HR, accountancy and software development.
Existing schemes at BAE Systems have been supported by its commitment to education, skills and early career activities. The current graduate and apprentice schemes at BAE Systems amount to 4,300 people or 10% of the workforce. It is known that 95% of the people who finish their apprenticeship at BAE Systems continue to be employed in full-time roles within the company.
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BAE Systems Graduate and Apprentice Schemes
Schemes will include more than 50 programmes within various areas that will allow successful applicants to work on advanced technology programmes. They will also have important roles in delivering essential services and equipment to the armed forces.
On their webpage, graduate schemes at BAE Systems will require a minimum of a 2:2 Bachelor’s degree in a subject related to the chosen area of work. For this scheme, they seek candidates with excellent problem-solving and analytical skills – further enhanced with drive and resilience.
They are offering a starting salary of £30,000 for graduates, with a £2,000 welcome payment. Furthermore, they also offer a 20% optional salary advance and car lease and share schemes. Benefits include pension packages, 25 days annual holiday with flexible leave arrangements, senior mentoring and discounts.
As for apprenticeships, the requirements vary based on the role but generally will require GCSEs as well as certain diplomas and certifications. Salaries for apprenticeships are around £13,844 with benefits that are similar to the ones offered to graduates.
Early Careers and Young Talent in the UK
Programmes such as apprenticeships and graduate schemes largely contribute to employing young talent in the UK. Earlier this year, the UK Office for National Statistics (ONS) found that 10.4% of young people in the UK aged 16 to 24 were not in education, employment or training.
Comprehensive graduate schemes such as the ones offered by BAE Systems provide an excellent route for graduates to secure long-term employment. These schemes also typically offer a holistic training and development programme that will significantly enhance employability and skills for graduates.
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Apprenticeships also provide opportunities to boost the national economy by developing skills for young talent. With such programmes, individuals can experience hands-on experience and academic study simultaneously, allowing them to learn while making an income. Such schemes play a big role in empowering young people who seek to be financially independent.
It is great to see more firms expanding or opening graduate schemes and apprenticeships. The impact will be significant in the long run, as more young talent will be exposed to early careers and development opportunities. Companies investing in early careers reflect their values to contribute to local communities and can also establish their competent workforce.