DTS Degree Apprenticeship: Software Review

My role as a software engineer apprentice within the Seating Department involves creating software automations to streamline processes. Currently, I am working on a tool to automate writing requirements for the Seating Systems team. On a day-to-day basis this involves attending the daily stand-up each morning to discuss progress on the project, and then coding by myself for the rest of the day whilst reaching out to those supporting me on the project for advice or guidance when necessary.

Since joining, I have picked up a bit of C# for the early careers race car team DRIVEN, writing some code for the speed limiter function. I also learned how to use Tableau to create and automate data dashboards and I have been developing my knowledge of web development (HTML/CSS/JavaScript) for a seat pneumatics automation project I am working on in my home team (Seat Attribute) where I needed to create a web application for colleagues to control the seat pneumatics.

At first, I found the programme a bit slow and uninteresting because I was not given any programming projects to work on as my home team is not a software team. However, after working on more relevant projects within and outside of my home team I enjoy the programme much more, although, I do wish I had the opportunity to work in a traditional software team but this may be something I can explore with a placement.

The programme is structured so that for every 2 weeks of work we have 2.5 days of university lectures. We usually have study days every Friday (although they are flexible and can sometimes include a Thursday close to assessments) and we have assessments every 6 weeks. Although the programme is quite organised in this way and the study days are good for working on university assignments, it does feel as though I can miss a lot of work and opportunities when I am at university. It also feels a bit strange to have a half day of university and then return back to work quite quickly as I feel I might not be as productive/assimilated as if it were a normal work day, especially since I have missed half the week. Also, the frequent assessment structure can be quite overwhelming and stressful because there can be multiple assessment due at the same time as well as work projects and deadlines to be working towards.

I feel well supported by my employer to get involved in projects that suit my interests and I am given time for my university work as well. Although, I do think it would be nice to receive more social support to get to know those in my team as I do not meet them in the office often as most work from home regularly.

I think the weekly study days on Friday (and sometimes Thursday, close to assessments) is very helpful when it comes to working towards my university assignments. Also, when I had an assignment to analyse a workplace issue, my team were very forthcoming with answering my questions for the coursework.

Some of the modules in my degree directly impact my day-to-day work in my role such as the programming module that has taught me how to use Git to maintain version control and write code to a certain standard. Other modules are less relevant to my day-to-day work such as the databases module but I can understand that knowledge may be beneficial in my role later.

At JLR, there are plenty of networks you can join such as Women In Engineering, REACH (a diversity network, the Early Careers network (ECS) and many more! They all run socials and networking events. For example, ECS have recently hosted the Winter Ball, a social at the ice skating rink as well as organised sporting activities such as hikes at locations across the country and bouldering at a local gym.

Yes

The community at JLR is really welcoming and there are plenty of opportunities to learn and develop as a professional even if it may be a bit difficult to find them at first. Another great benefit is that your qualification training is provided by the University of Warwick which is a top-ranked university!

My advice for applying to JLR would be to definitely register your interest on the early careers’ websites because you might get the opportunity to apply early which will ensure your application is considered first which is essential considering the volume of applications they receive. When it comes to work experience, JLR knows you are usually just out of school so make the most of your experiences in team projects at school to showcase your skills and help answer interview questions using the STAR method. Look to find examples of the skills that are either advertised on the application page or if they don’t list any specifically, make sure to mention: teamwork, organisation and communication (all essential skills you’ll need as an apprentice)! I’d also emphasise the importance of preparing for the online aptitude tests (there are a lot of resources online where you can practice for free or JLR has a free practice test on their page) because that is where a lot of candidates may miss out. When it comes to testing, personality is a big factor and there can be situational judgement questions so it is important to do your research on JLR and their values (the Creator's Code). However, do not just pick an answer because you think it is what they want to hear, be honest to yourself because you also need to make sure JLR is a fit for you too!