Test Lead Review

I am a Test Lead. As the name suggests my role primarily focuses on Testing. However, we have adopted a 'Digital' way of working, so I am also doing Live Support and a little bit of development too.

Yes. I have improved my Java skills. Capgemini have allowed me to put days down to focus solely on Java. I also now know a range of testing techniques and practices and Capgemini funded my ISTQB Foundation in Software Testing. I have also gained experience in Agile and of a 'Digital' way of working. The degree has also of course helped.

95% of people I have worked with have been lovely and very helpful throughout my time at Capgemini. My team are very close knit and work well together. I feel the programme has been invaluable to my career, whether or not I stay at Capgemini for the long haul.

I do feel valued. I think it does however speak volumes that a lot of apprentices leave immediately or soon after completing their apprenticeship. Admittedly I think it is money related most of the time - so in some people's eyes, perhaps we aren't valued enough. But I feel you are taken care of and are paid very well, particularly for my age, but I feel a lot of apprentices can take it for granted and feel we aren't paid enough!

When I started the programme was in its very early stages and you felt as though it was still being tuned whilst me and my fellow apprentices were on it. Sometimes we suffered because of that, but not to an unacceptable level. But now I believe the programme has gone from strength to strength and is very well organized. Capgemini have a good partner in Aston university, who are very professional.

You can feel that some of the Graduates and Apprentices Programme team need some more help as response times can be hit and miss. I think there are a wide range of tutors, some better than others, when you undergo your initial training. Aston University have been terrific. There is a lot of support available to students.

My manager is very supportive and allows me to put some time aside to solely learn Java or bring a particular skill up to speed. He is fair. The HR team are also very professional when required and you feel are always there to support you. I don't have someone as a "mentor" as such anymore, but the team mentors each other - there is a culture where we teach one another.

My salary is absolutely fantastic. As I have said on previous questions, some apprentices I feel do take it for granted and leave as soon as their apprenticeship ends. But as a 23 year old, relatively fresh in my career, it is brilliant, and is when just starting out too.

I wouldn't say there are a huge amount. But occasionally there are opportunities to attend school events to discuss your degree apprenticeship, charity events (e.g. painting, packaging etc.) and team meals.

Yes

Capgemini are very good with apprentices, especially now that they have had years working with them. Capgemini are very supportive and train you well. Colleagues are very supportive and patient when you learn. Hard work and ability is rewarded. Let's be honest - the pay is absolutely brilliant for apprentices too.

Brush up your development skills - it will also make you stand out if you've already developed your own applications. Show interest! Speak to the GAP team, ask them questions before your interview - show them how important the apprenticeship is to you before they even see your face!