Software Engineer Review

My role is a software engineer, integrated into a normal working team, working on tasks and bugs as everyone else does. Initially working on simple tasks and gradually ramping up to more complicated tasks, support from my colleagues is always available and I greatly benefit from that. The tasks and bugs resolved help with progress toward a better more robust product .

I have learnt many new skills during my apprenticeship, my communications skills have improved, including when and how soon to ask for help. My technical knowledge and skills have greatly improved and my general understanding of how the system I am working on continues to improve every day. I spent a few months working on a test project, and since have been sought out on a umber of occasions for my knowledge on the subject.

I enjoy the programme a great deal, although sometimes I struggle when a number of assignments are due to juggle them and work, and switch between the contexts of them all effectively, this is something that will hopefully improve in time. The support I have available makes any struggles disappear rapidly which is greatly appreciated.

The structure of the programme works really well. Due to circumstances where we had to switch colleges, which has impacted the time and frequency of delivery of the course, this has made it more full on. However I know feel like I am properly on track to complete and achieve the apprenticeship so the difficulties are worth it and I can see that if we were completing the apprenticeship in its normal structure this would not be a concern. The course was very front loaded with academic subjects which could have been spread out but we have it out of the way now, which I also appreciate.

I receive a huge amount of support from my employer in many forms. My manager is extremely supportive, available at short notice to discuss any issues and able to help my with advice and point me in the direction of other people or places to get me unstuck. My colleagues are always available to help out when I am stuck on a task, and explain solutions or assist in a way that is helpful for my learning. I have been giving a technical and career mentor who both help me a great deal and the Early Careers program which hosts regular sessions that assist with career development and how to tackle regular issues like imposters syndrome have all been extremely useful

My training provider delivers all the necessary material to understand and complete all of the assignments we have been given. at times more focus could have been spent on the marking method for specific assignments or how to write concisely so that all the necessary information is there without too much waffling on. With extensions available and the lecturers easy to contact I feel i have the support i require to obtain my qualifications.

Because the course has been heavily front loaded with academic lessons, while my ability to write documentation may have improved and potentially improved my communication skills, I am aware that subjects I will have in the future years of my course are more likely to assist me in my role with more lessons that improve my programming ability etc.

There are a number of extra-curricular activities to get involved in at work. Once a month there is a social event that allows us to communicate with our peers in a non work environment which is great for networking on a professional and social level. We have sports events that are great for participants and spectators to enhance the team atmosphere. Many other events occur throughout the year which are all great to attend.

Yes

I have worked in a number of jobs in different fields, but I have never felt so looked after and supported as I have at Hewlett Packard Enterprises. Everyone is so happy to give you their time so that they can help you and assistance is always delivered in a way where you feel they consider you on the same level. They will support and drive your ambition

Emphasise your drive and passion. Show that you are a team player but don't fade into the background. Avoid buzzwords if you cannot explain them in accurate detail and make sure that you understand anything you use in a technical exercise and are prepared to explain how it works. Be honest if you do not understand a question or subject.