Associate Review

I am part of a large team that works on several different types of projects. Each project will have a smaller team allocated to it and determines the type of work that you do on a day to day. It usually involves analysing data using tools such as Excel, Alteryx and Spotfire

One of my modules was called SQL Server and Data Modelling. I had never used this programme before, nor have I ever coded a database before. This module taught me how to decide which tables to have in a database and how to bring them together as well as how to code a basic working database. This is a skill I could further develop for more complex databases.

The programme is pretty good. I don't feel extreme pressure to balance work and study as I am given time out of my day to day job to study. It can be quite intense around deadline time as you have to manage your time well so you can complete all you need to for work and for the degree but my workplace tells us that studies are a priority.

This is the first year that they are doing this programme so it is not too well organised as yet. Both the training provider and the company are trying to find their way around and it does feel like we are guinea pigs at times but it is to be expected in the beginning of a new programme. There is a structure in place but things don't always work out as it is planned.

The company is very supportive. We have a lot of support structures such as a buddy to be your first point of contact when you come in to the company who can show you around and introduce you, a counsellor who manages you professionally but who you can also inform of personal issues that might affect your performance and a "tree" who are another point of support with at least one member of every rank that you can ask for help.

I have done 2 modules so far and one module runs throughout. One of these modules was well supported with good online resources to use and useful workshops to attend that linked directly to the work. The other module was not very well taught, though we have been informed that the tutor has been changed for this going forward. The ongoing module has sufficient support and a point of contact that is usually available to email and has regular meet ups to check your progress.

I haven't used a lot of what I've learnt in the training so far but I am expecting to in future. The qualification feels more like a means to an end than a direct link to the work but as it is a new programme, and the workplace is trying to be more digital, this may change.

There are several different networks that you can join, in a similar vain to societies at university, e.g. a women's network, sports network, tech network etc.. These networks host events and get-togethers that can be used to network professionally and also socially depending on the type of event.

Yes

If you are looking for an entry into the world of professional services, this is a great way to get in ahead of the curve. By the end of the apprenticeship you are at the same level as people who have completed the grad scheme so you're not playing catch up later. It gives you the opportunity to gain a degree without the burden of debt and 3-4 years work experience alongside it.

There are different service lines who do different things so do your research to see which one is for you and if this is actually the programme for you. Do your research ahead of the interviews, there is always some type of task they ask of you so check your email attachments. Based on your answers, they may direct you to a different team to the one you applied if they feel you are more suitable for the other one. Try to connect with people on LinkedIn that are already on the apprenticeship to find out their individual experiences as everyone is different. Don't worry if you don't know much coming in, they will teach you what you need to know on the job so apply even if you have no experience but an interest.