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BAE Systems push forward with recruitment of 800 apprentices

Thursday June 25th, 2020

 

BAE Systems is moving forward with the recruitment of a record number of apprentices, despite the COVID-19 pandemic.

 

More than 9,000 people across the UK applied for the 800 apprenticeship roles during February. They have put in place measures, including virtual interviews, which have enabled them to restart the recruitment drive with almost 2,000 shortlisted candidates.

Charles Woodburn, chief executive, BAE Systems, said: “Getting people back to work and creating new jobs, especially for younger people, is a national priority and we’re pleased to play our part in supporting the UK’s economic recovery. The contribution apprentices make to our business is vital in maintaining our ability to continue to deliver cutting edge technologies which protect national security. We’ve worked hard to adapt our application and training processes to allow education to continue, whilst protecting the health and wellbeing of our employees and new recruits.”

The successful applicants will begin their careers on one of more than 25 apprenticeship training programmes in their Air, Maritime and Electronic Systems divisions, with the majority joining from September to January.

Gavin Williamson, secretary of state for education, said: “It is brilliant to see BAE Systems’ continued support for apprenticeships, recognising the hard work, skills and value that apprentices bring to a world-leading British company.

“BAE Systems’ recruitment of 800 apprentices is yet more evidence that apprenticeships are an excellent choice for young people and shows that they are an excellent route into a wide range of high-quality and exciting careers. I am certain that apprenticeships will play a vital role in our economic recovery from coronavirus.

“I’d like to wish all of those who applied the best of luck and to thank BAE Systems for their ongoing commitment to invest in their next generation of highly skilled staff.”

Those who make it through the selection process could find themselves working on some of the UK’s most exciting and nationally important programmes. Apprentices play a role in developing future combat air technologies for the Tempest programme in Warton, Lancashire. Applicants could also find themselves working alongside the Armed Forces at RAF Coningsby or Portsmouth Naval Base.

Apprentices train in a number of disciplines including engineering, manufacturing, project management, finance, business administration and IT – representing a diverse and rigorous training programme. Approximately 95% successfully complete their training and apprentices have a strong track record of enjoying long careers with good progression in the Company.

Find out more information about early careers opportunities with BAE Systems here.

 

 

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