Java Developer Review

My apprenticeship is as a Java Developer where I am writing Java code for internal applications. My daily tasks include searching for improvements on existing programmes; this can be from feedback and data analysing, writing code and planning for future projects. I generally only have daily interactions internally to discuss business needs to help plan projects, members of my team to create effective code and users of the applications to see if there is any problems with the apps.

In this role I am learning new skills everyday, I have learnt how to write clear, well structured and effective code in the Java language; i have learnt how to effectively communicate with my team and other parts of the business to understand everybody's needs; I have learnt how to analyse data to see where there are problems withing applications and websites. The qualification I will come out with is a Level 4 Software Certificate but there are many opportunities to gain more on the side.

I enjoy my programme as Colt is a good environment to work in. My team are helpful when I experience problems with my work, the work environment is highly enjoyable and everyone is friendly and easy to talk to with any queries you might have. Joining Colt has been better than expected and I continue to enjoy it.

I feel that I am a valued employee at Colt as if I do something well i get recognition for it but still get told how i can improve to progress similarly if i don't do something well they will tell me and tell me how to improve. I am constantly involved with tasks and projects and given additional responsibilities on top of this which i enjoy.

I feel the programme is structured well. It started with an induction that lasted 2 days that allowed us to set everything up such as laptops, paperwork etc. The training has been good since it has been revised and it allows us to take 1 day a week to study and learn new things as well as 4 days on the job where we get to learn on the job duties and put our knowledge to use. The support from the training provider and internally from managers has been good and you often get to have meetings with your manager to discuss progress.

I feel like my training provider provides good support for me, they realised the problems fist involved regarding not having enough content learning but have since added me to new, more in depth training. My tutor is highly helpful and is always there to help me when I come across problems and we regularly keep up to date so he can check in with how I am progressing and update me with information i may need.

I feel I receive a good level of support from my employer, they often hold apprenticeship training where they bring in business coaches or internal employees to have a 1/2/3 hour session with us to help us with stuff such as Emails, effective communication with different employees and other business etiquette. I feel like I can go to HR, manager, mentor if I ever have a problem within the workplace and i feel that they would all support me with my learning and provide training where it is needed.

I feel that currently my salary does meet my costs. I still have enough spare to save a reasonable amount and go out every weekend. The cost that my salary covers are my phone bill, my travel (which is the most expensive around 20% of my wage), house keeping (rent), lunch, gym, car expenditures and my Deezer subscription. Not only does it cover all this but I also have enough left over to save around a 1/3 of my wage and after that I can still afford to go out every weekend if I wanted to, so the wage is very fair at Colt.

At Colt there are many outside of work opportunities. You can do a charity bike ride in different countries, have 2 days where you can do charity work, regular social events such as Christmas/Summer parties, sports clubs, language clubs, invite people on a first come first serve basis to go to the cinema on Colt and events like that. If you have your own idea of a club you would like to introduce you can always suggest one and more than likely it can become one.

Yes

Yes i would recommend Colt to a friend. This is because I feel that it is a good company to work for, you are given every opportunity to succeed by terms of support and progression, being able to socialise with everyone in the company through events, all employees making themselves available to help you if you need it, a good pay packet and for me providing me the opportunity to do something i enjoy, getting good work experience and gaining a qualification.

I would advice applicants to stay relaxed and remain stress free, be yourself in interviews and show your willingness to learn and dedication to your course and job role. When you first start don't be shy introduce yourself to others; even if it does seem daunting it will make yourself known and people will like you for it. Make friends with your fellow apprentices as they will be with you throughout your apprenticeship and help you through every step of the way. Most importantly enjoy yourself and get involved in events!