Higher Level Quality Assurance Apprentice
Location: Devonport, Plymouth, England
Sector/Business unit: Nuclear
My apprenticeship, why I chose it, and why I chose Babcock:
When I finished college, I knew that university wasn’t the right path for me. The idea of taking on significant student debt didn’t appeal, but I also wasn’t ready to stop learning. An apprenticeship offered the perfect balance – continuing my education while gaining valuable hands-on experience.
I chose this apprenticeship because I have always enjoyed exploring information in depth, analysing details, and ensuring tasks are completed to the highest standard. These naturally align with working within Quality Assurance, making it the clear choice for me. I take pride in being thorough and precise, and I am motivated by the opportunity to contribute to work that demands accuracy and excellence.
What attracted me most to Babcock was the unique variety of projects the company undertakes. The chance to be involved in such a broad spectrum of work – from surface ships to submarines – is incredibly exciting. Each area presents its own challenges and requires different approaches, meaning I am constantly learning and developing new skills. No two days are ever the same, and that variety ensures there are always opportunities to grow both professionally and personally.
For me, this apprenticeship is not just a way to build a career – it is a chance to be part of something meaningful, contributing to projects that make the world safer while continually striving to achieve more.
My favourite part of the programme:
My favourite aspect of the programme has been the opportunity to learn from such a diverse range of experienced professionals across multiple placements. Each team I have worked with has offered unique insights, and I have found every placement both engaging and rewarding. Observing different approaches and methods has broadened my understanding and deepened my appreciation of the expertise within the organisation.
So far, I have spent time with several Quality teams, including Submarines, Laboratories, Warships, and Facilities. I particularly value the variety of placements, as they provide a comprehensive view of the wider business while enabling me to continuously develop new skills.
My most rewarding project/experience:
It’s hard to pick just one rewarding experience because there have been so many highlights throughout the programme. But the residential week at Skern Lodge, an Outdoor Activity Development Centre in Devon, definitely stands out. It was the final stage of the Apprentice Development Programme, which included a series of masterclasses during our first year, and it gave us the chance to bring everything we’d learned together while also focusing on personal growth and teamwork.
During the week, my intake group and I took part in lots of activities designed to challenge us, build resilience, and strengthen collaboration. I really enjoyed stepping outside my comfort zone with things like climbing and tunnelling, and I realised how valuable skills such as communication, leadership, and problem-solving under pressure are – not just for the activities themselves, but for the workplace too.
What made the experience so memorable was the chance to bond with my peers. Working together in a completely different environment helped us build strong connections and gave us a real sense of achievement. Skern Lodge wasn’t just a milestone in the programme – it was also a reminder of how important teamwork and personal development are in shaping a successful career.
My work/life balance:
One of the things I value most about working at Babcock is the strong support for a healthy work–life balance. Flexible and agile working arrangements are available, which I’ve found particularly useful when I need a later start or an earlier finish. This flexibility allows me to manage personal commitments while staying on top of my workload, which is very motivating.
I also appreciate that Babcock recognises the importance of wellbeing and encourages employees to balance professional responsibilities with personal life. The ability to adapt my schedule when needed means I can approach each day with confidence, knowing I have the support to balance both sides effectively.
My development:
I’ve received a huge amount of support in my development throughout the programme, and this has been one of the most valuable aspects of my apprenticeship at Babcock. From the very beginning, my Apprentice Development Advisor has been a constant source of guidance, helping me to set clear goals and track my progress. My manager has also played a key role, offering encouragement and constructive feedback that has helped me grow both professionally and personally.
The placement teams I’ve worked with have been incredibly supportive too, always willing to share their expertise and provide insight into different areas of the business. This has given me a well-rounded understanding of how the quality function operates across a variety of projects. My course lecturer has also been instrumental in ensuring that my academic learning complements my practical experience, bridging the gap between theory and application.
What stands out most is the culture of support at Babcock – whatever assistance I’ve needed has always been just a question away. That environment has made me feel confident in my ability to learn, develop, and succeed.
