Administrator Review

I work within a team that applies security to computer networks. I specifically deal with websites and the security implications that can arise when different sites are access and how we can mitigate any incidents occurring. I deal with customers across my organisation on a day to day basis and well as liaising with other teams in my organisation to give the user access.

I am always learning something new in my role. Our systems are complex and there are many aspects to consider when giving users access to certain websites. I have been taught by my team members about the type of work the team specialises in. There are also technical qualifications available which I plan to complete in the future.

The program exceeded my expectations. I am very fortunate to be part of an organisation full of people willing to help my growth and development. Starting at such a young age, I have had a massive career boost as I have the opportunity to work with complex systems that make an impact in my organisation.

I do feel appreciated by my team and manager. We all work very well together and I am praised for work that I complete. There has not been enough involvement with team project perhaps due to the complexity of the work involved however in the future I plan to seek out more project opportunities.

The induction was very lengthy and included aspects that did not necessarily help us. There was some training available during the induction that was relevant and helpful but other things like an app to help us communicate better with our team was not helpful and a waste of time. There was not much support from the program organisers in terms of following up on us after our induction so it was very much up to our managers to schedule our work life.

In terms of the Level 3 qualification we had to complete it was poorly managed and not useful in our daily work role as the content was simplistic and not taught at all. I definitely would not recommend completing that qualification to anyone. Again, there was not much follow up with the program organisers after the first week of induction which meant there was some confusion with our roles as apprentices in the beginning.

My manager was excellent in scheduling interesting tasks for me to complete in her team and other teams. We had weekly meeting to catch-up and to ensure I was progressing well. These meeting were also very useful as I could clarify anything I had found confusing over the week. I really enjoyed our bilateral and continue to have them with my manager to this day.

Transport is very expensive in London and living costs are quite high as well. I have been able to manage my money well so I am not experiencing any financial trouble. I think the salary package offered by my organisation is one of the best packages available for apprentices both in terms of work perks and salary. For an 18 year old who has barely left school the package offered is very good.

There are a vast array of opportunities at my organisation that range for volunteering at local schools to company events that bring people together to socialise. There are many seminars available on a range of topics that allow me to branch outside my work role. We have gym facilities and sports clubs that people can get involved with.

Yes

I believe my organisation has one of the best packages out there when it comes to apprenticeships. Whilst the Level 3 program was not desirable at all the company's culture and the nature of the work I do more than make up for it. We have a vibrant culture at our organisation that allows employees to branch out into other industries apart from the one they are currently assigned to. The pay package is excellent considering our experience level and comparing it to other companies.

Make sure for the initial application process you mention a variety of work you have undertaken. For the assessment day make sure you stand out from the crowd by taking control of the group and leading the exercise. You don't have to be domineering, but assessors are interested in someone who can show good leadership qualities. For the interview, I always think honesty is the best policy. Interviewers will have more respect for you if you admit you don't know something but still show willingness to learn and improve on the subject. Good luck!