Rating

9/10
  • 1. Please give an overview of your role and what this involves on a day-to-day basis:
  • My role as a desktop analyst involves delivering and supporting technology to colleagues on a daily basis. As stated by my line manager I already play a 'vital role' within the team and contribute to daily objectives, for example satisfying the client in line with the SLA. The role of my team and myself is crucial to the workings of the business, whether it's solving problems at head office or regionally, we provide services that colleagues rely on, ranging from fixing laptop to mobile phone issues. I decided to apply for an apprenticeship directly through the co-operative website because of the opportunities they offer, not only do you gain the priceless work experience, you also gain qualifications. Not to mention the masses of money saved compared to going to University. My personal contribution to the workplace is a dedicated work ethic which produces quantifiable results along with a solid understanding to provide advice to the team from a new starters perspective, this helps the team resolve problems more efficiently. My aim throughout the apprenticeship is to fulfill my opportunity and exceed expectations to earn a full time job, ultimately progressing to a higher role potentially in project management.

    9/10

  • 2. Have you learnt any new skills or developed existing skills?
  • I have developed a wide range of skills throughout my apprenticeship; namely my technical ability and and networking capacity. I have learnt a wide range of skills and been able to progress my career as a result. I have taken part in technical Windows 7 training courses and completed my ITIL Foundation course during my apprenticeship.

    9/10

  • 3. To what extent do you enjoy your programme?
  • I have thoroughly enjoyed my Apprenticeship within the Co-operative. I was exposed to lots of opportunities to help me experience and develop my skills in different environments. The Co-operative work ethic and employees who are willing to provide guidance helped to create a successful programme.

    9/10

  • 4. How valued do you feel by Co-op?
  • I feel very valued within the workplace. All of the staff were encouraging and provided the right amount of guidance. The managers treated me the same as the other colleagues and showed their appreciation after a solid piece of work was completed. In addition, i was asked to take part in project work and other activities outside of the normal role.

    9/10

  • 5. How well organised/structured is your programme?
  • The program was well structured with a plan of what i would be working towards in the programme. This included the skills i would be taught. who would be teaching me and a schedule of when these tasks would be completed. I was also given the necessary time to complete my apprenticeship work, whilst in the workplace when required.

    9/10

  • 6a. How much support do you receive from your training provider?
  • The Apprenticeship tutor is very committed towards providing the students with the best support. If you have any questions/queries the tutor is always available to ask. Also, the colleagues in the workplace provide assistance and help with any work that needs to be completed in the workplace to contribute towards the qualification.

    9/10

  • 6b. How much support do you receive from your employer?
  • My managers and colleagues provide great support with any questions i have with regards to the qualification or general queries surrounding the role. They make it easy to ask questions and comfortable environment.

    9/10

  • 7. How well does your salary/package meet your costs?
  • The Salary provided is more than sufficient to meet the costs of living and travelling to/from the workplace.

    9/10

  • 8. Are there many opportunities outside of work?
  • There are social events outside of work which allow you to strengthen relationships with colleagues. These are great for networking and getting to know other people in the business.

    9/10

  • 9. Would you recommend Co-op to a friend?
  • Yes


  • 9b. Why?
  • The Co-operative Group have provided me with a wealth of skills along with knowledge and experience into the IT Sector. They have provided me with a firm grounding to build on in the future. I have been exposed to lots of different scenarios which have significantly increased my confidence and ability in this sector. In addition to which i have been able to better understand what i would like to do in the future and will continue to utilise skills i developed whilst working for The Co-operative Group. I would most definitely recommend and Apprenticeship with this company.


  • 10. What tips or advice would you give to others applying to Co-op?
  • I would advise that you prepare your knowledge on all of The Co-operatives businesses and try to show your enthusiasm around what you want to achieve whilst working there. Make it clear that you want to provide the business a benefit and that you are keen to learn from others and adapt your current skills. Be confident, positive and make it clear you want to learn.


Details

Higher Level Apprenticeship

Information Technology

North West

June 2015


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