Software Tester Review

I am a Software Tester for Atos on the NS&I account. My daily tasks vary depending on what stage of my project I am on, usually we will receive a project which could be a database containing customer's account details is getting changed then our tasks would be to test that the new database works exactly as it is supposed to by creating and doing tests on it.

Since starting here I have been working with new software that I had never seen or heard of before therefore my skills in these types of software were non-existent, now however I am comfortable with using the software as well gaining the skills to use them by going on the apprenticeship courses that are set up for me. For example I had never used SQL before but in my job there is an application which requires the user to understand SQL, one of the courses I was sent on for my apprenticeship was on SQL so when I had come back I was able to adequately use the application as well as teach my colleagues a few tricks and skills on it.

The programme I am on is very enjoyable there is always something to do, there is never a quiet day which I was enjoy most when working because there is nothing worse than having nothing to do and being bored.

There is always constant communication between my manager and myself and others members of my team which I feel is an important factor in feeling valued. My manager and colleagues understand I am new to do the job whereas they've been doing it for years so they are appreciative that I cannot always do the tasks that they do but they are always offering their help and support.

The programme I am on is very well organised and structured. As soon as I joined I was made aware of the induction that is necessary for new apprentices, and it was all booked and orgainsed within a month. All my courses and dates were also booked and arranged for the year which was helpful for me as I was able to plan holidays or other things as I wasn't waiting til the last minute to know when my training dates were.

My tutor meets me at least every 6 weeks to discuss my work and progress as well setting me more work for his next visit. However there is not a lot if any communication and guidance in between his visits.

My mentor and other members of my team are very helpful and are always there for when I am stuck on a specific task I have been given, the fact that we are a team of 8 and we are all sat near each other is also helpful.

For an apprenticeship the salary here is very good especially for a person of my age(18) as well as there are not many apprenticeships out there that offer the same wage package as Atos.

N/a

Yes

Having an apprenticeship at Atos is a great platform to kick start a career, there are many opportunities to improve yourself here and climb the hierarchy ladder.

Be prepared to go the extra mile. As a new employee doing extra work or putting more effort in will definitely be rewarded in the future.