Apprentice Software Engineer Review

Each day I work on a project, usually a different project every 2 weeks, using new technology. My job is to create innovative solutions for clients using technology. I also have side of desk work involving running a team to build a solution I proposed. I have daily meetings to catch up with my team, and client meetings once every 2 weeks to check in. I also work with a wider team to share ideas and collaborate. My side of desk work includes running a team, but also being part of different ally programs for Mental Health and LGBT; in these teams I help to set up meetings and events.

I have learned many different programming languages including C#, JavaScript and React. I have been able to build on existing languages I know such as Python. I have also been working on building skills in AWS, and creating mock end-points using Postman. I have developed skills building API's and lots of experience in using technologies such as Amazon Alexa. I am working towards my Digital Technology Solutions degree at University which has taught me a lot about the application and theory of software development. I have also attended training courses from professionals in AWS and Pega. Personally I have had experience with leading a team in a solution that I proposed, and I have given presentations to senior managers which has helped build my presentation skills and confidence.

I love my job. I never feel like an apprentice as I am given the same work as everyone else, however I am also given support where necessary and people understand that I have less experience so are always willing to help. The company offers many benefits to the employees including theater ticket raffles, private healthcare, and a generally caring culture. My team are friendly and always patient, I also recieve support from many other employees who are always willing to help. The company is very accepting especially around things such as LGBT and mental health. They have allowed me flexible working hours where necessary due to my health, and also provided support and check-ins with me.

The structure in my program is very clear. I have a mentor at work who I can talk to about any issues I may have with the course, and they will offer guidance where possible. My course has 3 lecturers for different topics, and then a program leader who is in charge of overall wellbeing and general queries. I am allowed study days to take off my project to complete assignments. I receive support from my manager, but also from the program leaders and mentor. My team are understanding of my studies and allow me to work on them during downtime.

I receive a lot of support from my employer in many regards. I have a number of health related conditions for which I receive support from HR, which includes allowing flexible working hours, and taking sickness where necessary. My mentor supports us at university and solves any issues we may be having such as travel (e.g. by providing a coach). My manager is very supportive and always willing to help me when I get stuck, as well as monitoring my mental health to ensure I do not get too stressed out. There are designated people I can talk to about certain manners for example the mental health allies or LGBT committee.

I am provided with study days that I can take off my project to work on assignments. We have a program leader who is always on hand to ask questions or point us in the right direction. Everybody is always willing to help if we ask. Our lecturers are very supportive and always take into account that we have jobs to do, so this is taken into consideration during assignments. We are always provided with support and told who to go to if we have a certain problem. I never feel as though I am stuck with something because there is always somebody there to support, and those people are made very clear.

I think that my qualification gives me a better understanding of the background of my work. It is useful to know the theory as it helps understand things such as correct programming practices, and a deeper understanding of how businesses work. I have also been able to build my programming skills during Uni which helps me in my role. I feel like as a result of my qualification I have a deeper understanding of my business and how it works, and why my role is important. However, some parts of the course can be a bit general and not useful for my career path for example networking.

I am involved in a number of committees who have planned social and networking events during work, to meet people with similar interests. We have a TAG committee who regularly hold events such as meals to meet other employees. My team often meet after work to go for a meal or drinks. There are lots of clubs to get involved in such as sport clubs. We have charity days, so I have done a number of days to help with charities for example my team did a beach clean-up. The company also has a christmas party every year for all employees across a few of our branches.

Yes

The company culture is incredible and I always feel like a valued employee. I have a lot of support and I do not feel uncomfortable asking for it. I have been involved in lots of different activities and met a lot of people through work. My role is always changing which is great for me as it allows me to try new things. I am working with new technologies and constantly producing solutions that can help the business world. I look forward to my job each day and have no complaints. My work is satisfying and i have the opportunity to try lots of new things.

The application process can seem daunting at first, but is honestly not that bad! It starts with an application, if you know anybody in the business ask them to refer you! You will also have to do a video interview where you will be asked questions, and an assessment day where they will assess you in a group. A key thing to remember is that we are a business that thrives on people, so people skills and teamwork are essential. You don't need to have a previous background in technology to apply as the course will teach you everything you need to know, so don't be put off if you don't have previous experience!