Digital Technology Solutions Degree Apprentice Review

I am currently using digital solutions to solve problems within teams at Jaguar Land Rover. The role involves creating software using programming languages. Other than this, I assist engineers within my team with vehicle testing A large part of my role is communicating information and testing results with other members of the team and senior managers.

Despite only being in the first year of the scheme, the range of skills I have learnt or developed is large. The balance between University and work-based learning allows targeting of different skill sets. During my time at University I have learnt programming and analytical skills whereas at work-based learning I have developed team-working, communication and I.T. skills.

I thoroughly enjoy my programme, more than I originally expected to. The initial 3 months spent at University is a great way to introduce you to what is expected of you as a degree apprentice while giving you time to enjoy the typical 'University life'. You have the opportunity to meet others on your scheme before starting work-based learning.

Unfortunately the organisation is where this programme falls. Although the interview stages were well organised, the lead up to the start of University was disorganised. Also during the time at University we were given weeks of "self-study" with not much structure. It felt as if the University themselves was not sure what to do with us. On starting work-based learning I felt as if manager's were not entirely sure what this meant for them.

Since beginning work-based learning, I have been offered large amounts of support from my team mates and manager. I am always encouraged to ask for help if I need it or don't understand something. My team have also allowed me time to work on University assignments. There are wellbeing services within JLR including a dedicated website.

I In terms of study, extra support was offered from the tutors during assignment periods. We are also offered on the job learning which means we can dedicate a section of our work-based learning time to our study. This is useful in periods where we have multiple assignments due. We were given a large amount of study time in the initial three months at University. However, as previously mentioned, it felt as if this is because they were not sure what to do with us.

So far, some of what I have learnt at University has been useful. However, I have found that a large amount of what I am required to do in my job role is not yet taught and will be done so in later years. I understand that due to the large range of placements it is difficult to make work-based learning and University teachings match, however it has made me partially feel that some of the initial three months is wasted.

As Degree Apprentices, we have access to Warwick University's societies and sports clubs. The University recommends we make the most out of this however it is often difficult as most sports clubs have training at Wednesday afternoons. JLR itself has extra-curricular activities, but my personal team organises its own activities.

Yes

Although the degree apprenticeship is very different from the typical University experience, the offer of a salary while studying for a degree is desirable. There is enough University lifestyle available for those who want it, but there is also the professional experience available that many job applications require. The higher salary than a typical apprenticeship and the degree qualification at the end is also beneficial.

Although the interview stage is daunting it is important to demonstrate a range of skills to the interviewers and then fully involve yourself in the group task. They want you to show evidence of any skills that you claim to have so be prepared with examples of how you've applied your skills. The group task is just as important as the interview as here they want to see your team-working and problem solving skills. Make sure you completely understand what is being discussed and if not, ask questions. They would prefer to see you making an effort to be involved and understand than not participate.