Record number of apprentices are set to be taken on by BAE Systems

BAE has announced it will recruit 142 higher and degree level apprentices as part of a wider recruitment of more than 680 apprentices in 2016.

It includes 67 advanced apprentices roles, 20 higher apprentices and 23 degree apprentices at BAE’s military air and information business in Warton and Samlesbury.

For the first time the company will also offer a masters level apprenticeship, with 18 employees due to start the Systems Engineering Level 7 apprenticeship at Cranfield University this year.

The company said the announcement was part of BAE Systems’ ongoing commitment to nurture talent and high end skills as one of the largest recruiters of apprentices in the UK.

The BAE Systems’ apprenticeship scheme offers vocational experience as well as training up to degree and masters level, providing apprentices with the opportunity of full-time employment with a recognised qualification at the end of their training.

It is open for applications until February 29.

Successful candidates will join the firm’s three to five year training programmes working towards designing, building and supporting some of the world’s most advanced, technology-led defence, aerospace and security solutions.

Nigel Whitehead, group managing director of programmes and support, said: “BAE Systems is a company with great ambitions and nurturing a high calibre workforce is vital to our future. We take great pride in the record number of higher level apprenticeships on offer this year and the exciting introduction of master level degrees for our existing employees.”

“BAE Systems remains committed to developing the skills needed in our sector and our apprentices enjoy not only high quality training but real hands-on experience developing, building and supporting the cutting-edge products that will safeguard our national security in years to come.”

Half of the 680 apprentices joining the business this year will be based at the submarine design and manufacturing site in Barrow-in-Furness shipyard in Cumbria, delivering the remaining Astute class attack submarines and developing and building the new ‘Successor’ submarines.

For more visit: http://www.baesystems.com/apprentices