Security Consultant Review

As a degree apprentice on a rotation scheme, I divide my time between attending university and working at the company. Specifically, I attend university one day a week, focusing on academic learning, while the other four days are dedicated to gaining practical experience and contributing to the business. Here’s an overview of my role: University Attendance: On my university day, I attend lectures and seminars, where I focus on my academic coursework and develop a deeper understanding of the theoretical aspects of my field of study. This day provides essential foundational knowledge, which I can apply in my work at the company. Work at the Company: The remaining four days of the week are spent working for the company, where I am involved in various projects depending on my current rotation. My responsibilities may include collaborating with different teams, attending meetings, and contributing to specific tasks or deliverables related to the project. Project Work: During each rotation, I am assigned to different projects, which involve tasks such as research, analysis, technical work, or problem-solving. My day-to-day work includes progressing on these tasks, ensuring that I meet deadlines and contribute effectively to the project’s objectives. Team Collaboration: I regularly collaborate with colleagues across various departments, participating in team meetings and contributing to project discussions. This collaborative approach allows me to learn from experienced professionals and gain insight into the different areas of the business. Balancing Work and Study: Managing both university and work requires effective time management. I prioritize tasks to ensure that I meet academic deadlines while fulfilling my responsibilities at the company. The opportunity to apply my academic knowledge in a real-world setting enhances my learning experience and provides valuable practical skills. Reporting and Feedback: At work, I provide regular updates on the progress of my tasks and projects, often through reports or presentations. I receive constructive feedback from my mentors and managers, which helps guide my development and ensures I am continuously improving. Hands-On Experience: Both at university and at the company, I engage in hands-on tasks that allow me to apply theoretical concepts in practical scenarios. At the company, this might involve technical work such as coding or system design, while at university, I work on assignments or projects that further develop my skill set. Networking and Career Development: Throughout my apprenticeship, I have the opportunity to build a professional network within the company, as well as with fellow students and faculty at university. This network supports my career development by providing mentorship, guidance, and valuable industry insights. This structure allows me to develop both academic and professional skills, equipping me for a successful career in my chosen field.

Since joining the company straight out of sixth form in September 2023, I have had the opportunity to learn a wide range of new skills while also developing existing ones. One of the key areas I’ve focused on is client communication. Initially, this was a new aspect for me, as I had limited experience in professional environments. Over time, I’ve built confidence in interacting with clients, managing expectations, and ensuring clear, effective communication, whether through emails, meetings, or presentations. This skill has been essential in ensuring that the projects I work on align with client needs and expectations. I’ve learned how to listen carefully to clients, ask the right questions, and convey information in a concise and professional manner. Additionally, I’ve developed a better understanding of how to handle challenging conversations and navigate complex client requirements, all while maintaining a positive and solution-focused attitude. Alongside client communication, I’ve enhanced my project management skills. Rotating through different projects has required me to be organized and adaptable, learning how to prioritize tasks, meet deadlines, and collaborate with different teams efficiently. Technical skills have also been a major focus. Depending on the rotation, I’ve had the chance to work on coding, data analysis, and system design, all of which have allowed me to apply my academic learning to real-world tasks. Overall, transitioning from sixth form directly into this apprenticeship has been an invaluable experience, enabling me to rapidly develop both professional and technical skills in a fast-paced, dynamic environment.

I thoroughly enjoy my apprenticeship programme, rating it a 10/10. The opportunity to balance academic learning with hands-on experience at the company has been invaluable. I appreciate the diverse range of projects I get to work on, which challenge me and help me grow professionally. The rotation scheme allows me to explore different areas of the business, expanding my skill set and broadening my understanding of the industry. I also enjoy the mentorship and collaboration with experienced colleagues, which provides constant learning and development. Overall, this programme has exceeded my expectations and has been an incredibly rewarding experience.

The structure of my apprenticeship programme is highly organized and well thought out. The rotation scheme is clearly defined, with each rotation offering a focused set of projects and responsibilities that align with my learning objectives. I have a balanced schedule, with one day dedicated to university and the remaining four days spent gaining practical experience at the company. Regular check-ins with mentors and managers ensure I receive feedback and guidance throughout the programme. The support system, including clear communication channels, makes it easy to track my progress and ensures that I am always aligned with the programme’s goals.

I receive excellent support from my employer throughout the apprenticeship. My managers and mentors are always available to provide guidance, offer feedback, and help me navigate any challenges I face. I have regular check-ins to discuss my progress, goals, and any areas where I may need additional training or resources. The company encourages my development through structured learning opportunities, as well as by involving me in a variety of projects that help build my skills. Additionally, my colleagues are supportive and always willing to share their knowledge, making it a collaborative and nurturing work environment.

I receive excellent support from my training provider. My tutors are accessible for guidance and feedback, ensuring I stay on track with my coursework. They offer useful resources like workshops and online materials to enhance my learning. Regular check-ins help assess my progress, and their feedback is constructive, helping me continually improve as I work towards my qualification.

I feel that my qualification significantly enhances my performance in my role. The academic knowledge I gain through my training provider directly supports my work, allowing me to apply theoretical concepts to real-world projects. It strengthens my problem-solving abilities, technical skills, and overall understanding of the industry, making me more confident and effective in my day-to-day responsibilities.

Yes, there are various extra-curricular activities available at my workplace. These include social events, team-building activities, and occasional networking opportunities. The company encourages a positive work-life balance, and there are often informal gatherings, sports teams, or wellness initiatives to promote employee engagement. Additionally, professional development events, industry meetups, and networking functions are also offered, providing opportunities to connect with colleagues and expand professional networks.

Yes

I would highly recommend CGI to a friend because of the excellent support and development opportunities it offers. The rotation scheme allows for diverse experiences and skill-building across different areas of the business. The collaborative and inclusive work culture makes it a great place to learn and grow. Additionally, the company provides strong mentorship, ongoing training, and a clear path for career progression. It’s a place where both personal and professional growth are genuinely encouraged.

My advice for others applying would be to be yourself and be vocal. It's important to show your true personality during the application and interview process—companies appreciate authenticity and want to see how you’ll fit within the team. Also, don’t be afraid to speak up once you’re in the role. Ask questions, share ideas, and be proactive in seeking feedback and opportunities. Being engaged and communicative will help you make the most of the apprenticeship and show your commitment to learning and growth. In addition to being yourself and being vocal, I would also recommend being organized and proactive. Apprenticeships can be fast-paced, so staying on top of your tasks, deadlines, and responsibilities is crucial. Don’t wait for instructions—take the initiative to contribute wherever possible and look for ways to improve processes or solve problems. Also, embrace learning opportunities. Whether it’s formal training or learning from colleagues, be open to new experiences and skills. Lastly, network—build relationships with colleagues and mentors across the company, as these connections can provide valuable insights and help with career progression.