BAE Systems is hiring more than 1,250 new apprentices and graduates into its early careers programmes in 2021.

More than 850 apprenticeships and 400 graduate roles are available across the UK, the highest number the company has ever recruited in a single year.

Around 75% of apprenticeships and more than 50% of graduate roles are based in the North of England – providing critical employment and education opportunities in areas reliant on long-term job creation.

New recruits will have the chance to be involved in technologically advanced programmes including Tempest, a future combat air system for the Royal Air Force and Dreadnought, a new generation of submarines for the Royal Navy.

Charles Woodburn, chief executive of BAE Systems, said: “Getting people back to work and creating high-quality jobs is a national priority. So, it’s more important than ever that those of us who are in a position to do so continue our investment in the UK workforce.

“We’re fortunate that our business is based on long-term critical defence programmes, giving us the confidence to increase our apprentice and graduate recruitment to create a strong talent pipeline, which enables us to continue delivering cutting-edge technologies, whilst playing a role in supporting the UK’s economic recovery.”

BAE’s apprenticeship programmes aren’t just for school or college leavers – almost 10% of its apprentices are over 25 and for those facing uncertainty in the current climate, they provide a wide range of opportunities to retrain.

The company has also doubled the type of apprenticeship programmes offered to more than 50, including options to study up to degree and masters levels. Opportunities are available in a variety of roles including accountancy, human resources, electronic systems design, software development, joinery and mechanical fitting.

The apprenticeships are externally recognised – rated Ofsted Outstanding – and are named in the Department for Education’s list of Top 100 apprenticeship employers. In November, BAE won the Macro Employer of the Year award in the National Apprenticeship Awards.

BAE apprentices have worked hard throughout the pandemic to continue their training using a new virtual working environment. Nearly all end point assessments due this year were completed on time, enabling apprentices completing their training to take the next steps in their careers with the company.

BAE Systems
www.baesystems.com/earlycareers

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