Software Engineer Review

My role as a mainframe builder is to write and fix programs to perform various functions. These programs are part of a massive branching system that deals with all customer interactions with their bank accounts from balance checking to bank switching. My responsibilities include writing code to an efficient and thorough standard and to test all code that I write to ensure its reliability on the live systems. I work on a project basis receiving a constant stream of challenging and new tasks.

Everything that I now know and use on a day to day basis I have learnt since being in the organisation. As much as having computing qualifications the extent of knowledge required far surpasses that level of knowledge. The organisation is keen for all apprentices to learn everything they need to know and always provide the necessary teaching to allow for this. My ability to write code proficiently and perform testing has improved drastically as a result of learning through my work.

The programme is by far the best opportunity I have had academically and socially. The organisation is clear in its desire for employee satisfaction making the work side of the course highly enjoyable. Matched with the opportunity to learn as I work and earn is the best scenario I could have found. The university course works alongside the work I do and each benefit the other providing constant learning and improvement.

The organisation has been running the apprenticeship scheme for longer than many experienced providers. The exact course I am on has been running for 2 years however because of the experience and knowledge from previous years a well balanced and structured course has been provided. There will always be new things that the organisation has to deal with as each year progresses however these are dealt with excellently and have little detriment to the overall experience.

Working in my team I am fortunate to have a highly experienced mentor who is always keen to see me learn and improve. I have never felt as though support is not there if I need it and often times I receive more support than I may have needed. Regardless, it is always helpful and supports my learning. In terms of university I am supported by all my tutors as well as my learning and progress manager from the university. I have constant one to ones at work with my supervisor and my progress manager where I can discuss any queries I may have.

Both work and university are keen to see me succeed in my university qualifications and it is part of my objectives to achieve a 2-1 minimum each year at university. Everyone that oversees my progress has the greatest interests for me to achieve this and structured meetings are provided to keep track of my progress and development.

I am very fortunate to be part of a department which has its own unique pathway on the university course. This way, everything I learn at university assists my work and vice versa. The university works closely with the line managers of my area to develop a course that ensures both aspects of the program support the other.

Within the organisation there are more extra-curricular activities available than it is possible to attend and there is such a wide variety of things to take part in that there will always be something to interest everyone. From sporting clubs to fundraising events and onsite held talks ran by a variety of interesting organisations and individuals. The organisation supports partaking in these activities and aims to improve the wellbeing of all staff while at work.

Yes

Being part of a successful and hard working ecosystem makes work fun and interesting with constant support and new challenges constantly available. The organisation strives for your happiness while working here and will try its best to put you in a place where you are comfortable and happy. There are many opportunities available and a clear sense of reward for the effort and time you put into your work and your team. The sense of inclusion is fantastic and everyone around you is there to support you on your journey within the organisation.

Realise the opportunity to work here is a brilliant one and that it will be hard to match the experience you will receive here anywhere else. Be genuine and honest in your application and remember that it is a professional environment. Focus on being the 5 values that Barclays aims to be: Respect, Integrity, Service, Excellence and Stewardship. If you have these traits then there will be a place for you here.