Software Developer Review

Currently my main task are creating unit test for the project code as to get familiar with the project so I can move onto more harder task an d contribute more to the project development. My project is also Agile so their is a lot of meetings mainly in Leatherhead as well as travelling to London which I find great instead of being stuck in the same office everyday. As well as doing the task I have been assigned on the side I have been continuously learning different skills such as databases, UI development and other programming languages and frameworks.

I have learnt so much from working with CGI as well as developing skills i already had such as public speaking, team work and organisation. Examples of new skills I have learnt especially when it comes to software development is quite a lot I have learnt multiple programming languages my main being Java as well as being exposed to frameworks and how easier they make development.

The training side of things as well as communication from Makers was not great at all I honestly found the training provided by Makers was quite lack luster and wish they trained us with programming languages actually related to what I will be doing with CGI in this case was Java but instead we were trained with [This section of the comment has been removed by a member of the RateMyApprenticeship Team because it did not meet our site terms and conditions]. On CGI end the overall support I get is amazing everyone I ask is willing to help me as well as provide resources when ever I need them, and this is honestly the best thing with working with CGI is the community and support you get and how everyone wants you to succeed and that is up to you to do the work.

Makers academy were kinda of a disappointment as the communication was not great we found a lot about what we were doing quite late into the year such as having exams and controlled assessments but to be fair to them the BCS board have some of the blame in this as well. The 3 months training we had I found a bit lack luster and not as useful as I thought it would actually be but I was introduced to some elements of software development which was good.

On CGI end the overall support I get is amazing everyone I ask is willing to help me as well as provide resources when ever I need them, and this is honestly the best thing with working with CGI is the community and support you get and how everyone wants you to succeed and that is up to you to do the work.

Makers academy are quick to respond when ever i needed help I just messaged them and would usually get a reply within the day also the monthly 1 to 1 meetings are really great to get so i know what I need to do to pass the apprenticeship and helps you organise and prepare for it.

The training did introduce to me a lot about software development such as TDD, agile workflow and debugging but I wished they thought it more relevant to CGI side of thing such as using programming languages which CGI actually uses and introduce frameworks more as well. Also at the start it seemed a bit confusing on what we were going to be doing as well as getting resources late such as Mac laptops which hindered some parts of the programme as their revolved around having Mac Laptops.

Yes the social club at CGI is great so many clubs you can join as well as activities and events to participate and do. Currently I am part of the basketball club and sometimes also join the cinema club as well. I have also attended a few events such as bowling ball and participating in dinners.

Yes

A very flexible and friendly company and great place to kick start your career as the support you get is honestly overwhelming. Also you are able to experience new things such as changing job roles if you want as well the ability to work remote from home which is a plus.

Be a friendly, positive and outgoing person as there is as socialising and networking is part of the job and is almost required. Also if you're just starting your career it is alright to be nervous as most people are already going to be expecting that and don't let that put you off.