New Talent Trainee (Software Engineering Graduate Scheme) Review

I'm on the software engineering graduate scheme. This is a two year scheme followed by a permanent role. The scheme is made up of four rotations, each of six months. Each rotation will be with some area of the BBC such as iPlayer, Sounds, News, Weather, Apps, Voice, and so on, and there are many teams within each of these fields which deal with the front-end, back-end, and some have a mix of both. Essentially there is a lot of variation in where you can work, and what you can do, so there isn't really a standard experience. Generally speaking the day will begin with stand-up, and then you'll proceed to work on whatever tickets you've been assigned. Some teams prefer pairing, others don't mind. There's plenty of opportunities to learn and the BBC host many training events that are free to attend. Overall it's a very relaxed and informal work-style and the experience has been good so far!

I was fortunate in that many of the skills I started at university have neatly been built upon with my work here, however many people are completely new to some of the technologies and languages being used. That said, there isn't an expectation to be an expert or anything like that, my teams have been quite happy to provide training, allow time to do online courses, and let your buddy help you out. There's also something called '10% time' in many teams which is essentially a day every two weeks dedicated to self-improvement which might be learning or time to do personal projects related to the technologies you're currently using.

My experience of the graduate scheme so far has overall been a good one. I've learnt a lot, and there's plenty more to learn still. Everyone is friendly, the teams are quite sociable, and the work environment is very laid-back. Everyone I've asked for help has been more than willing to lend a hand and answer my questions. I have found though that progress can move, depending on the team, at a pretty glacial pace. It can also be disheartening to know that ideas you have that could improve a BBC product are unlikely to see fruition due to the large administrative overhead behind any changes. The majority of important information, such as how to get set up, is passed down by word of mouth, and there doesn't seem to be a standard way of doing anything. This means that everyone ends up with a different environments which can make finding the answers to environmental issues quite difficult! Issues aside, which are ultimately minor frustrations, I consider the scheme to be fairly enjoyable overall.

The structure of the programme is reasonably well organised. The scheme lasts for two years, and consists of four rotations, each of six months. It ends with a continuing role somewhere in the organisation. The first rotation is chosen for you based on the strengths perceived from your CV and interview, subsequent rotations you rank your preferred three rotations and they attempt to give everyone their highest ranked choices. It's not terribly uncommon to not get your first choice, some people haven't received one of their choices at all - in these cases a rotation is chosen for them. Also the system by which a continuing role is given at the end of the scheme remains unclear. The information around the scheme is mostly straightforward but further information isn't always given out clearly or easy to get hold of. The structure of the rotations themselves varies by rotation but generally there's an emphasis on letting you learn about, and work with things that are interesting to you.

Regular one-to-one's with my line manager and product manager. There's also easy access to all kinds of support groups for those who need them. I also was assigned a mentor who I meet up with every month or so and we go out for coffee and it's really helpful as a person to talk to in confidence.

There aren't "qualifications" as such, but each rotation you are asked to write up a list of objectives with your product manager. The product manager will then aim to guide you towards meeting those objectives. These might be as simple as get more familiar with X technology, or to complete some particular piece of work. I do however feel the objectives system is something of a distraction, as the rotations generally lend themselves to engaging your interests, and working towards your goals anyway.

The graduate scheme provides an opportunity to work in a wide variety of different technologies, many of which are industry standard. One thing that's worth mentioning though is that the BBC use many wrappers so you'll often find yourself working via those, rather than with the industry standard directly.

There's lots of opportunities to get involved with social activities. Events are regularly advertised both on Slack and on posters. Teams often will hold their own social events and may also do some sort of sport or activity at lunchtimes. It's potentially worth asking in advance before you choose your rotations, to see what they do.

Yes

The BBC has a high standard of professionalism, but it's also very casual at heart. Everyone from all walks of life are welcome, and made to feel welcome here. When you eventually leave and look for another employer, you'll be at an advantage as the BBC is renowned.

You're likely to have many questions - don't feel like you can't ask them! Also, you may not enjoy all your rotations equally, that's only natural. They only last 6 months and the time passes surprisingly quickly! Finally, socialise with the other grads to make the most of your time here - they're going through the same thing you are!