Cyber Security Apprentice Review

A variety depending on the team I'm embedded with as part of the rota, which ranged from Automation to Tech. Designing and implementing the configuration of machinery/PCs and its network, documentation, and learning about the various different systems we have on-site.

Absolutely yes - I have gained a lot of technical skills in networking and implementing cyber security principles. I've also gained great business skills meaning I'm able to work efficiently and meet targets that I have from others and those I set myself. I've also gained great soft skills such as being more proactive and having good time management.

Completely, both the job life and the university life.

This apprenticeship was novel and so the structure was malleable, but this proved to my advantage as I spent longer in the areas that I wanted to learn more about, which has prepared me better for when the apprenticeship finished. Otherwise, there was a clear rota and degree scheme.

I have always had support from within the team and further such as the apprenticeship team.

My managers in all rotas always made sure I get what I need for my assignments and coursework, allowing me to learn more about the business too.

The DTS degree ultimately was a very solid foundation, with a good specialism in cyber security. However, the experience you get from on-the-job learning proves far more relevant to what you do than the background theory. There was a lot, however, that I gained from the degree (such as experience with Linux or more programming) that I wouldn't have got from my job, which have all proved useful at work.

There's a lot of extra-curricular activities provided from the teams you're in and the other apprentices/industrial placement students.

Yes

I would not be in the role I am in now, with the experience and skills that I have, if I had not been trained so well as part of this apprenticeship.

Emphasise the relevant skills or extra-curricular activities you've done that are relevant to your role, for example, I'd done the Engineering Education Scheme and a lot of programming hobby projects, which I believe all helped in getting the role. When you're in the apprenticeship, make sure to be proactive and out of your comfort zone if you feel it'll help you in developing new skills. Make sure to take advantage of the support, touchpoints, and resources that an apprenticeship gives - it'll all help in the long run.