The sky’s the limit for Lewis Brereton after completing his software engineering apprenticeship through the University of Central Lancashire (UCLan) while working at BAE Systems
Ask Lewis if he’s pleased with his choice of a UCLan apprenticeship course and the answer is a resounding ‘yes’.
The 21 year old was clear that the benefits of studying an apprenticeship part-time while working with BAE Systems made it the only choice for him.
He recently graduated from his four-year apprenticeship course studying a BEng in software engineering with a first-class honours degree and has been in full-time employment with the aerospace company since.
Having moved up to Preston from Stoke-on-Trent to carry out the engineering degree apprenticeship scheme at BAE Systems, Lewis studied part-time two days per week while undertaking a series of work-based placements.
“The degree apprenticeship was an incredibly attractive prospect to me, whilst others around me were applying to study at university full-time. The idea of having my degree fully funded, whilst being paid and working with experts seemed a no-brainer.”
“As it turns out, the degree apprenticeship scheme has exceeded my expectations and is definitely the best decision I have made in terms of my educational and professional development. It wouldn’t be wrong to say that BAE Systems and UCLan have given me a head start in the world of work.”
“I’ve received a fantastic education from UCLan and have also had my fair share of the ‘student lifestyle’. I’ve met friends for life, integrated myself into a number of extra-curricular activities, worked with subject matter experts and have utilised some of the fantastic opportunities which BAE Systems has presented me.”
Visit uclan.ac.uk/apprenticeships to find out more about degree apprenticeships at UCLan
