Software Engineer Review

During my apprenticeship, I was introduced and given the opportunity to work on many parts of the software engineering process including front-end and backend development, with a variety of languages and aims. I had some involvement in system maintenance and monitoring, before focusing more on web development towards the end of my apprenticeship.

I learnt a lot from hands-on experience in the workplace, building on some fundamentals I previously knew, taking them to a professional standard. Also supporting skills including the deployment of software and the management of systems I knew little about before.

I had a positive experience at work and found myself motivated and enjoying the work. The apprenticeship was let down by the university training, which sometimes lacked organisation. Because of the range of student levels, lectures seemed to go from basic overviews by one teacher to too difficult by another with little support.

Work was organised well, (except for some processes) but the university was organised poorly.

I have a supportive manager, who has been flexible with my university allocated time with extra study days being signed off when needed. People in the office with a range of skills have taken time to help me revise and gain a better understanding when I have been struggling which led to good grades.

Some lecturers were really supportive and took time out to provide additional teaching on parts I found difficult, to support my assignments. However, some lecturers didn't teach the content we were being tested on and declined running a mock test until there were enough complaints. poor grades that module was dismissed as it being a hard topic. Some modules felt forced and not useful, such as Foundations of Management and Personal Development. Reducing time for the modules that felt far more significant. The skills covered in these modules are covered by real work experience.

I feel like i have learnt more from work, however, UNI supported this with theory, reinforcing knowledge and proving that I deserve a specific qualification.

Our work site has a gym and a badminton sports hall that I use regularly.

Yes

Positive experience working here. attractive pay. Variety of roles.

Be genuinely interested in the role offered, learn what it involves, ask as many questions as needed to understand if its right for you. Display you've completed tasks or a project that shows you're serious about pursuing this career. Sign up for a work experience / mentoring day.