Sponsored degree student- Floorwalker Review

I am a floor walker for CNWL roll out so I travel to different hospitals installing I.T equipment and helping to fix problems. It's really fun as I get to meet lots of people and work in a team with lots of other apprentices.

I'm getting a degree so far I've mainly learnt about project management, as well as, various I.T systems and how they can help a business. I've also developed practical skills through my role, for example, how to resolve I.T issues and also developed my confidence and communication skills.

I love the work and university, however, it isn't always 100% enjoyable because it can be quite hard balancing university, work, long commutes and living away from home, particularly when I have lots of assignments due in.

I am regularly congratulated by colleagues when I work hard and it's a friendly company to work for. People have been very welcoming and willing to help.

It's quite well structured as the study is always on the Monday and I'm given university tasks in advance so can plan what I'm going to do.

The university work is very independent and we don't get much support but I believe this is due to the higher level of education. Some of the tutors are more helpful than others and provide detailed word counts and examples, whereas others give little guidance so it depends on the module.

CGI are supportive and I have a career manager to help me achieve my career goals and I have weekly meetings with my work based studies mentor who helps me with university work, for example, I can practice my presentations in front of her before I perform them in university. This is particularly helpful as she also helps me to understand the module handbooks and the tasks I need to complete for university.

I live in Reading and use public transport and the starting salary is enough for me to buy everything I want to each month as long as I stick to my budget plan. I also manage to save some money each month which will allow me to complete driving lessons and go on several holidays over the coming months. It's also enough to do go out with friends each week and I can afford to travel around the UK to visit those who live further away.

There are quite a few volunteering opportunities at work and you can take time off for volunteering. There are plenty of social events within projects and also a sports and social club which you can join for £5 a month and gives you the freedom to set up your own company funded events or join other company funded events which occur once or twice a month and are usually free to sports and social club members. The company also has various sports teams and you can join societies from Winchester University (as well as some Reading University societies if you ask nicely). The only problem is you may not always have time to do everything during term times as it can be quite busy.

Yes

It's a friendly company with great benefits like pension and share plans and they offer you a free degree and permanent job.

Be confident and be yourself in the interview. As long as you are friendly to everyone, have an interest in I.C.T and genuinely want to work for the company you should be fine. Good luck! :)