Software Engineering Apprentice Review

by KPMG

Best Apprenticeship Employer

Rating

7.9/10

1. Please give an overview of your role and what this involves on a day-to-day basis:

My morning start with a daily stand up where I share the progress of the work I am doing and whether I need more work/help. Then I spend most of my day coding in TypeScript/React/Next Js. I sometimes do peer reviews on code to check if it meets the tasks description.

9/10

2. Have you learnt any new skills or developed existing skills?

TypeScript, JavaScript, AWS/cloud, Next Js, Express Js, React Js

9/10

3. To what extent do you enjoy your programme?

I really enjoy my program. I have learnt a lot and feel like I am really a software developer and part of my team. My job allows me to problem solve and be creative/innovative at the same time. I like the fact we are encouraged to take on certifications and volunteering.

9/10

4. How well organised/structured is your programme?

My program on the university end could be more organised. This is currently being improved. Sometimes guidance can be late from the university in terms of timetables/reviews. The work side of my program is structured in that I am currently in a project full-time and know what my expectations are.

7/10

5. How much support do you receive from your employer?

I receive a lot of support. We have monthly calls to check if we have any queries and concerns about the program and if I am stuck with a programming task my team is always readily available to help me and walk me through it. My performance manager is highly approachable and we have regular monthly conversations. My employer has encouraged me to take on certifications and has provided the training materials and facilities to do this.

9/10

6. How much support do you receive from your training provider when working towards your qualifications?

My training provider could be more supportive in terms of response time and setting clear guidelines for support, though they are starting to improve on this. We have access to all the campus facilities and online resources that regular students do. This is beneficial to me as I can use the library resources to support my learning.

6/10

7. How well do you feel that your qualification (through your training provider) helps you to perform better in your role?

I feel like it provides the theory behind some of the concepts I learn at work. However, I find that university degrees can be outdated in terms of the technologies we use. Though it still provides the fundamentals I needs to be successful in my role. Some of my modules align with work (work-based modules) whilst others do not.

6/10

8. Are there extra-curricular activities to get involved in at your work? (For example, any social activities, sports teams, or even professional networking events.)

I do a lot of volunteering such as helping out at career's fairs, doing recruitment talks, mentoring and helping primary schools. I find this really fulfilling. As well as networking with other apprentices I have also recently joined the Muslim community and Its Her Future Community, which host a range of events.

8/10

9a. Would you recommend KPMG to a friend?

Yes

9b. Why?

It is a great start to anyones career. You are treated like an employee and get to do work that aligns with your role. I have been on several projects and have learnt a lot. I also get to do a lot of volunteering and have a lot of flexibility in my role. The people are great too!

10. What tips or advice would you give to others applying to KPMG?

I would advice applicants to be themselves and showcase their passion in the role they are applying for. Understand KPMG as a company and research the values to see how you align with them. Applicants should also use the STAR technique and come up with examples/experience base on those values.