Network Apprentice Review

Role involves logging into systems to assist with the live network. As part of this, I have to assist customers at various sites across the country and beyond. I've also had a chance to see first-hand some of the amazing equipment before it is launched into the live network.

Before i started the apprenticeship, I was a very shy person and was not confident at all with networking with other people or talking to customers on the phone. Since starting the role, I have grown in confidence and my ability with talking to people on the phone has significantly improved.

Overall, its an enjoyable programme. You get to work in a fully operational role from day one and gain experience along the way. Your learning in the working environment is backed up by a comprehensive studying programme. Sometimes, the support from other full time members of staff could be better though.

Overall, the structure is well organised. If you ever have an issue, there are people you can turn to and ask for help. The full time members of staff are sometimes reluctant to offer assistance and this can be frustrating but I believe the emphasis is on self-driven initiative. There are lots of departments at BT though, so there are lots of opportunities to rotate elsewhere if you aren't enjoying your current role.

Considering BT is a large company with 100,000 employees, the support received from the company is superb. We are regularly kept in the loop by our senior leaders with any updates regarding certain departments or even the company as a whole. We are made to feel very valued as employees.

Support from our training provider is sometimes hit and miss. They are very forthcoming with the content and provide assistance where required. However, sometimes the messages from the training company can be very misleading and this can lead to issues further down the line. Fortunately however, we have someone at BT who supports our study programme and we can turn to them if we need further assistance.

I think the study combines nicely with the working role. Both seem to compliment each other well and this means I am getting the full benefit from the apprenticeship. As said previously, I think the communication from the study partner could be improved somewhat, Overall though, the study is beneficial and integral to my development.

Through my role I have been able to make good friends and we will often go out for social meals or trips to the pub. Additionally, I have also networked with some of the full time members of staff by playing sports and getting involved with the Christmas party. There are also opportunities to help the wider community and BT gives each employee three volunteering days per year in which to get involved with these activities.

Yes

BT is a super company which makes you feel valued. The communication throughout the company is excellent and the rewards package is generous too. As an apprentice, you will learn along the way and BT funds this programme. You also start on a full-time wage which increases every year based on performance.

Make sure to be as outgoing as possible as this will give you the best possible coverage within the company and help to get your name out there. I know moving to a big company may be a daunting experience and it may take a while to settle, but take every opportunity you get to build your name and confidence will increase over time.