BAE Systems are looking to recruit up to 341 new apprentices and graduates in Lancashire during 2021.

Their bases in Warton and Samlesbury have multiple opportunities for people wanting to get involved with their air and shared services.

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This will include 213 apprentices and 128 graduates.

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BAE Systems also has a total of 1,250 places across the country which is a new record despite the struggles of the pandemic.

They claim that 75 per cent of apprenticeships and more than 50 per cent of graduate roles are based in the North of England.

Also, new recruits will have the chance to be involved in some of the UK’s most exciting and 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 Systems have also recruited almost 20 apprentices from different companies that were no longer able to continue with their programmes.

They are also involved with the government’s Kickstart Scheme which recruits young people ages 18-24 that are on Universal Credit or at risk of long-term unemployment.

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BAE also makes clear that ten per cent of people are over 25 and that the programme are not just for school leavers.

They offer over 50 types of apprenticeship training programmes including accountancy, human resources, electronic systems design, software development, joinery and mechanical fitting.  

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Rt Hon Gavin Williamson, Education Secretary said: “Apprenticeships are a great way to learn the skills needed to get ahead in a range of exciting industries including cyber security, maritime engineering and project management.

“As we build back better, apprenticeships will play a vital role in helping to rebuild our economy after the pandemic. 

“It’s fantastic to see BAE Systems continuing to innovate and invest in apprenticeships giving more people of all ages and backgrounds the chance to progress. I encourage businesses of all sizes to follow their lead, recruiting more apprentices to help take their business to the next level.”

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Their apprenticeships are rated outstanding my Ofsted.

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During the pandemic much of the learning has been done virtually.

Asha Pickford, first year Higher Apprentice said: “I joined the Maritime Services business in Portsmouth Naval Base in October and whilst the start of my training has been somewhat different to what I originally expected due to the pandemic, I’m fully immersed in my role and I’m looking forward to the exciting career opportunities ahead of me.”

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