Network Tester Review

I test pieces of equipment before they go live into the network. These are quite often expensive pieces of kit and it is interesting to be able to apply network configuration skills as part of my daily role. Often these pieces of equipment are added into the network and it is good to know that my daily role has an impact on the network as a whole. I feel very valued in my daily role

I have learnt how to apply cli to network devices and configure them for suitable use within the network. I have also learnt team working skills and gained a knowledge of all of the networking equipment vendors. I am constantly learning as part of my role and the managers are always happy to answer any questions I may have as this is a mutually beneficial experience. Every week, I learn something new which can benefit my role

I enjoy the daily role. The apprenticeship provides plenty of opportunities to rotate, although it is disappointing to know that these opportunities have been stagnated for some of my colleagues. I am worried that these managers will apply pressure on me in the future and I will be moved to different roles based on business requirements rather than what I would actually want to do. I am learning a lot from my study programme and this compliments my role.

There are too many middle managers. We have apprentice programme coordinators who organise our apprenticeships very well, however the middle managers quite often use apprentices to fulfil roles at a cheaper rate than hiring new staff. It would be much better if the managers and apprenticeship coordinators communicated more regularly so as to ensure we are getting a fully enriching experience, rather than simply being in the company to do jobs that nobody else would want to do.

Our manager is always available to chat should we have a concern and this is refreshing. We also receive support from our apprentice co-ordinators and this is also beneficial. The only thing that could be improved is the level of communication between all of these bodies. Support form our training provider is the most difficult to obtain and this can be frustrating at times. However, if I need more time or support with my studies, I know I can receive it.

The level of communication between apprentices and our training provider is disappointing. This is a shame as BT has previously offered apprentices the chance to obtain a degree from UOS, which would seem to be a better option. The training we receive directly from the provider is good when it is delivered, but outside of this there is not much support available and it has made things very frustrating for me on a personal level.

My training as a whole helps with my day to day role, but I find I gain more benefit from actually doing the role on a daily basis with people who are experienced. In turn, my role does help with my studies and it is good to learn about all the different areas of network engineering, testing and operations. BT is a large company, so having a knowledge of multiple aspects does put you in good stead for the future.

Not many at the moment due to coronavirus. However, when available, there are opportunities to help both with external partners and onsite with various events. BT hosts a number of events throughout the year which require the support of apprentices to maintain and it is enriching to be able to encourage the next generation of apprentices into starting an apprenticeship in technology at BT. I’ve been able to help with crumblebots and teaching how to code.

Yes

On the whole, BT is a large company with a lot of opportunities. It is not somewhere I would recommend staying for 20/30+ years, but it is somewhere where you can learn the ropes of technology and have a highly rewarding career. Ultimately, if you want to become a manager, I believe the opportunities offered elsewhere could be more beneficial. My perspective is that BT hires a lot of middle managers, only to lay them off on a seemingly regular basis and this is not encouraging.

Take all the opportunities you can get. Try and get a flavour for as many aspects of technology as you can and take part in as many volunteering events as you can. The apprenticeship is about so much more than just the 9-5 grind and with so many opportunities, there is always something to get involved with. Try to be forward thinking and willing to contribute your ideas, as BT will give you the support to make them a reality.