ESB Software Engineer Review

My current job title is Higher Apprentice - IT. My day-to-day tasks include joining our daily call, looking after the dashboards for our team, monitoring the logins for ESB Shared Users and testing capabilities as needed. I would also be involved in meetings via Skype or face-to-face in the office. As mentioned already, I have the responsibility of looking after our dashboards which also requires looking after the server that runs them therefore requiring access to the server room to maintain this. I would have daily interactions with my Line Manager as he is on the same team as me.

Recently I have acquired my First Aid certificate. I have also obtained my initial training for MQ Administration. I have done a number of online courses within BT's internal Academy. My presentation skills have vastly improved due to having to present both in work (and outside of work at careers talks) and university. Through university, I have expanded my skills in Java and Android Development.

Overall, I enjoy the programme. It is something that I definitely encourage people to consider over the traditional route of university. For me it worked well, I have learnt new skills, on the job experience, get to travel, meet new people, take part in events and also as some people don't consider you get paid for a full time job as you learn and gain qualifications. The people in my office are great and friendly, particularly my team are great. They make sure I'm not stuck and help me any way they can. The programme was actually above my expectations. I would say one of the only downsides is that when a particular event is happening in for example London, as I'm based in Northern Ireland, it's not as easy for me to be able to attend an event like that due to the cost of flights and hotels etc. that would need to be considered before I go.

Personally I feel really valued. In particular within my team, gratitude and praise is given when deserved. I've received numerous eCards over the years showing appreciation from people that I've helped and from accomplishing certain tasks. I have regular contact with my line manager who always makes me feel valued and makes sure I get the help I need. He's been very supportive on the run up to the completion of my university assignments by allowing me extra time to get this finished.

Overall, the programme is well structured. I had an induction week at Yarnfield in my first week of BT. This allowed me to learn about BT, develop team building skills and meet new people from across the UK. I have an apprentice couch that keeps in regular contact and helps me when I need it. Training courses are provided and my team has sent me on a few as well as done some online courses. I get my timetables well in advance in the year for university so that I can organise flights and transport well in advance. Work is given at the appropriate time with enough time to get the work completed.

My university lecturers are great, they are really helpful and responsive via email. On the weeks when I am at university they really do put the effort in to providing the help that they can in the short space of time that they have. My apprentice coach is a great help also, she keeps in regular contact and helps where I need it. All in all everyone is very pro-active in helping me where I need it. This makes my work and experience very enjoyable.

I get brilliant support from my line manager and other people on my team. They make sure I have enough work to do and make sure that I'm not struggling. In particular my line manager is great at giving me time especially towards the end to solely focus on my university and NVQ work. As we have regular one-to-ones he's well up-to-date with my work and where I am with it.

My salary is fantastic. For an apprentice like myself to be earning what I am earning isn't often heard off. Plus with the increase every year, it only gets better and easier, granted as my salary increases, my cost of living increases but to me that doesn't make my life any harder. With a salary benefit like this I feel I have more opportunities than a normal university student as I don't have debt and have money to be able to socialise or travel.

There are loads of opportunities outside of work that I have been involved with. We have a Sport's Day in August along with a barbeque, I have volunteered with BT twice at Dog's Trust, took part in a 5k run for Leukemia and Lymphoma NI amongst other things. I am also a part of the BFSEC (Belfast Social Engagement Committee)team which organises events throughout the year for everyone in my building. BT has its Christmas Dinner every year as well as we have our own team Christmas Dinner also.

Yes

Everything about BT is fantastic. The company is great to work for, on the job experience, a job at the end of the apprenticeship, career progression, professional qualifications gained (degree/foundation degree/NVQ) as well as other qualifications, travel opportunities, meet people from different places and cultures, volunteering, fantastic salary and loads more benefits.

I would say to other people, really consider the opportunity, it is an unbelievable opportunity. In the application process, showcase your skills and talents, think hard why you think you'd be a suitable candidate. In the interview, be yourself and be confident. In the Assessment days, stand out amongst the other candidates, ask questions and be a team player. I would also say consider the fact you have to travel for university to England. If you don't like travelling, it might not be the best thing for you.