Software Engineer Apprentice Review

I currently work within the Financial Controls department of the Project Management Office. My role includes compiling employees time and expenses into a consolidated timesheet. Once approved, I then create a client-friendly version which supplements the CTS. I then create the invoice based off of that and send it off to the client. I am currently onboarding a brand new diamond client and am responsible for contract management.

I have learnt many new skills in this role, most notably advanced Excel features. These are skills that I never thought I'd need but now that I have them they are some of the most important skills in my skillset. Before I was assigned to this role - during my 8 week bootcamp - I learnt and developed many skills, including Java, C++, Oracle VM, SQL and Linux.

I enjoy it because of the responsibility I get -- I get treat like I am a regular employee, just like everyone else. It's brilliant. However, whilst I am doing the same job as everyone else, I am being paid half of what they are. Again, I understand I am an apprentice, however when we're in a role we are no longer seen as apprentices -- just normal people. I deal with MDs, Senior Managers etc. all of the time and they don't consider that I may be an apprentice. Great when it comes to exposure but not so great when it comes to salary.

Very valued. We get plenty of opportunities to improve things, as well as to just grow as an individual both personally and professionally. The amount of responsibility I am given is just tremendous, almost thrilling.

My programme is very well structured/organised (for the most part). Everything went as planned except for the beginning of my degree. I was meant to start studying that in September 2017, however it was delayed until February 2018. This wasn't explained to us and there was no communication from anyone about what was happening in regards to this.

We receive a lot of support. Once per week, the course leader from the training provider visits Accenture to address any issues that we may have. Lecturers are always an email away and I can get support from them easily.

My Line Manager and Career Counselor are constantly there anytime I need them, whether that be with my professional work or any personal issues that I have. This is embedded into Accenture's culture.

Currently -- not so well. I spend over £300 on my car just to get to and from work (this is due to mileage limitations and petrol). I also pay rent which is £350, as well as other things like my mobile phone and basic food/drink and living costs. In the end, I only come out with about £250-300 spare. This isn't enough to live comfortably and start saving.

Sometimes there are, other times it's like the Nevada desert.

Yes

An incredible apprenticeship that sets you up for life. You get a degree, you get experience at one of the worlds most renowned tech companies, a decent salary and a kickstart to your career.

Be confident (even if you're not) and talk a lot at the assessment day. Seriously just talk A LOT. Even if it's not the most genius thing. Just talk