BAE to recruit more than 100 apprentices

Defence, aerospace and security firm BAE Systems has confirmed it is to take on more than 100 new apprentices at its Lancashire sites next September.

For this year, it will also take on a pair of youngsters training for a Higher Apprenticeship in Aerospace Engineering, a new five-year scheme which offers youngsters the chance to earn a degree qualification in aerospace software development.

Chris Boardman, managing director of the company’s Military Air and Information (MAI) who started as an apprentice in 1979, said: “As someone who came through an apprenticeship, I recognise the value of giving our people the right skills to do the job.

The group of engineering, business and project control apprentices which were recruited by the firm last month have started a 12-month period of training at the company’s facility in Preston, where they will get a grounding in skills needed for their future career.

Following their initial training, the majority of the apprentices will go on to work roles in the company behind fighter aircraft including the Eurofighter Typhoon and Hawk jet trainer, both used by air forces including the RAF.

He said: “I love the role, it challenges me every day and I know that I am not only working towards a qualification but getting paid for it as well. I am getting on-the-job training alongside a group of people who have been doing the jobs for many years, you cannot beat that experience.” Last week, Thomas was named the MAI business’s First Year Apprentice of the Year for its Warton and Samlesbury sites at a special ceremony held at Deepdale to recognise the achievements of its apprentices.