Associate Applications Developer Review

My daily role involves co-ordinating and advising senior project leads, developing web applications for internal customer use, and collaborating with other employees to co-create solutions to fit customer needs. I initially worked as a service desk agent, administering 2000+ users and finding improvements for project inefficiencies. I'm now a lead developer in my team, creating applications to streamline our processes, as well as creating intelligent reporting tools which are being used to redesign the ways of working for teams across the business.

I've learnt how to manage projects, and define detailed requirements, and effectively collaborate with others on large projects. In particular, I have developed a deep understanding of a range of programming languages, which I apply daily. The attached university course is good for rounding out the knowledge you gain at work, and it has all been valuable.

I really enjoy working at Fujitsu, and having the opportunity to learn on the job and develop my professional network. The university has its ups and downs, but Fujitsu supports us as much as they can, and it is great being able to rely on and work with the rest of the cohort of apprentices.

The degree apprenticeship with Fujitsu is 4 years, which is different from other companies (normally 3 years). The first and second years consist of 8 modules per year at university, split over two semesters, and 4 professional development events over the first two years of the apprenticeship. The third year has 6 university modules over two semesters, with the fourth year being focused upon the synoptic project (basically a dissertation). Other companies merge the third and fourth years together, meaning Fujitsu gives you an additional year to dedicate to your project. In the workplace, you usually move around from project to project each year though this isn't always the case. My role is very diverse, so I have been in my team for 3 years. It's your journey, and Fujitsu respects your input when these decisions come up.

Fujitsu is very supportive of us in the programme, offering any additional training that we request. They provide mentors, and professional support, as well as giving us additional time to focus on studies when needed. If you require further support, there are systems in place to allow you access it, just ask your line manager.

When doing your synoptic project, you will have an advisor provided by the university, but otherwise you will need to approach the university for academic support on your own time. The university will organise reviews with you and your line manager every couple of months, but I have had them cancelled last minute on several occasions. Overall, the university is not very good at supporting degree apprentice students.

I rarely apply what I learn at university to what I do in the workplace. I more often find that what I learn at work has supported my studies, though I appreciate having the full picture that academic study provides. The studies have opened my eyes to other areas I can explore in a professional environment.

There are frequent professional events we can attend, and we are encouraged to by our managers and senior leadership. Furthermore, we have a GAP (Graduate, Apprentice, and Placement) community where we organise social events, charity events, and collaborate across business areas. There are other opportunities available, and we're encouraged to start communities of interest if one doesn't exist already.

Yes

Fujitsu offers a competitively salary, plenty of opportunity for learning and development, and a supportive professional environment for people just joining the corporate world. I really appreciate the opportunities provided to me, and am very happy I chose a degree apprenticeship with Fujitsu. I would be happier with a better training provider than Winchester, but you'll only be there one day per week so the impact is minimal.

You'll do some online tests first, then go through an assessment centre so employers can judge your aptitude and ability to work in a group setting. I have personally run a few of these days for new intake, and usually it is just a series of tasks to complete as a team, followed by panel interviews. Just try to relax and do your best. The onboarding can be daunting, but Fujitsu does everything they can to ease you into the corporate environment.