Cyber Security Higher Apprentice Review

I work in the Security team at National Grid. During the apprenticeship, I have worked in many different teams so the day-to-day work varies a lot. In the past I have managed cyber security incidents and performed the analysis of the threats myself. I have written risk assessments and engineered networks. I often travel for work to implement systems at sites around the country.

I have attended many courses for business 'soft' skills which have helped me a lot with presentations and time keeping. I have done safety courses in first aid, mental health awareness, fire safety and health and safety on our operational sites. I have completed multiple courses relating to cyber security and have gained a large amount of experience during the course.

I really enjoy the scope of the work we do. I have worked in multiple teams and have gained different knowledge and experiences from all of them. The different teams also help to figure out what you want to work on or the environment you want to work in if you are unsure.

Very well structured. The apprentices that have been through the scheme organise the placements to ensure that all the requirements of the apprenticeships are met. The apprenticeship scheme includes a piece of coursework that has a list of requirements, so each apprentice completes all the required work to meet these. Though there is room for the apprentice to tailor the work they do to what they are interested in.

I receive a lot of support from my employer. I have multiple levels of management to speak to about any problems that I may have whether work-related or not. The company has a strong stance on supporting employees and is very inclusive. I have a placement manager who can help with work related issues, a line manager who helps with organisation and pastoral care, and a programme manager who helps with development and training.

I have received a lot of help from my training provider. They run good training courses and I have passed all of my exams with their help. I also have a skills coach who helps me plan out the work for my coursework and keeps me on track. While I was preparing for the End Point Assessment I was given support and help to make sure I knew what to expect.

The qualification has provided structure around the work that I do and has helped me to make sure I completed varied work during my apprenticeship. The training courses I attended also helped improve my technical knowledge and gave me a starting point that I could use when I was working in a more technical team.

There are a lot of non-work related activities run by National Grid. There are multiple sports teams, charity fundraisers, and even a choir. There are also groups and communities of women in STEM, BAME employees and LGBTQ+ employees who attend Pride every year. Teams usually celebrate together at Christmas parties and most have a leaving 'do if someone is moving to another job.

Yes

I have been very well supported by my colleagues and managers - everyone is willing to help or explain anything. There is a supportive environment in the office and I am always encouraged to find ways to develop my skills. I have made many good friends in my time at National Grid. And having Cake Fridays doesn't hurt either!

You don't need any experience in Cyber Security to work in Cyber at National Grid. The training courses cover all of the skills you need and learning on the job is a great way of picking up things quickly. There is room for changing up the structure of the course if you find something you are really interested in so my only advice is to come in with an open mind and enthusiasm to learn.