Network Apprentice Review

My main role is to monitor the live network and to fault and fix any issues that arise. My role is to learn how to maintain, install and test BT’s network in order to contribute to the maintenance of brilliant connectivity and availability for our customers. I learn both in operational roles and I also am working towards a degree in Networks. These combined will mean that I will have all the skills I need to become a full team member once I complete my apprenticeship

I've already learnt so many new skills and been able to develop any skills which come to be naturally. At BT they play to your strengths and encourage you to develop any skills you enjoy. Personally, I've been able to gain skills in communication, time management, project management and organisation.

As stated previously, BT encourage you to pursue your passions, which makes the programme enjoyable. If your passions aren't reflected in your day job you can do extra curricular activities or organise charity events. The programme also allows you to rotate into other departments within BT so you can find what you enjoy most.

The apprenticeship is very organised at BT. You are assigned a buddy, who will guide you on anything you are unsure about. You also have a line manager who will be with you throughout the apprenticeship and who will have 1-2-1s with you every month. We are also lucky enough to have an apprentice assessor and co-ordinator who can also help with all aspects of the apprenticeship.

Similarly to the previous question you are very supported at BT. You are assigned a buddy, who will guide you on anything you are unsure about. You also have a line manager who will be with you throughout the apprenticeship and who will have 1-2-1s with you every month. We are also lucky enough to have an apprentice assessor and co-ordinator who can also help with all aspects of the apprenticeship. All of the other apprentices are also there to help.

We attend the university of Suffolk as part time learners. This means that we are able to get the same amount of support as a full time student studying there. Your tutors are always there to help if you need and you can book sessions with them if needed. They also have bookable maths, statistics and writing sessions with support workers outside of your course.

I have absolutely no networking experience so starting at BT was quite daunting for me. However, after attending university I already feel as if I have a basic understanding of networking which allows me to understand the work I do at BT much better. The tutors are also able to answer any questions you may have specifically about your job role.

You are allowed 3 days volunteering off work in order to do anything you would like either inside or outside work time. You are allowed to organise fundraising or sponsored charity events. You can also take part in a large variety of sporting activities and teams. There is always an opportunity to get involved in any social or networking gatherings.

Yes

BT is a great place for anybody who wants to build a long and successful career. We are able to develop on our strengths and weaknesses and everybody at BT wants you to succeed. If you are a hard worker and want to push yourself to develop then I would recommend BT.

I would say be yourself. You have to get past a set of tests which will look at whether you suit the business or not. If you are not yourself in these tests then you may not find you are suited to life at BT. Also do your research before any interview.