IT Apprentice Review

In my role as IT apprentice, I am tasked in overlooking our Chromebook bookings as well as moving them around. I am also tasked in supporting teachers , checking if their devices are working properly such as IWB and laptops

In my time at Ashmole Academy, I have learned an array of skills including troubleshooting a multitude of devices as well as developed my communication skills through interactions with internal and external stakeholders. I also learned various skills during the course sessions from creating networks in packet tracer as well as configuring and managing user accounts

The courses we did were as enjoyable as they were informative. The course taught me the fundamentals of IT so i may be able to perform my duties for the school. The labs and practical work we did were particularly enjoyable

The programme is very well structured and there are a few topics that do eventually link back to previous courses. It was also structured in a way that did not cause information overload. However, the gap between the final course and EPA can be quite challenging depending on the workplace.

Getting support is quite a challenge in my workplace as we are shortstaffed. We also have security measures in place that hinder my ability to explore and learn more about specific aspects of IT (security i.e. firewalls, encryption and other technical controls)

The review sessions we have are very useful when gauging the next steps. Our mentor clearly outlines what to do next and where else I can improve. Although the review sessions are not frequent, we are given the opportunity to contact our mentor to ask for support if and when we need it.

Having the qualification would make me feel more confident in my knowledge and skills to perform my duties in my workplace

Apart from our golden week, a week where the wellbeing of staff are prioritised, we also have the IT BETT show, a tech event showcasing the latest in tech for education, which I unfortunately could not take part of.

No

For someone starting out in the IT industry, this place may not be the best due to its low IT staff count meaning that there wont be as much support nor will it always be readily available. There are also many measurements in place that will limit how much you can do within the company as an apprentice which already posed a great challenge for me when completing my portfolio

if you are set on working in this place, I would advice you to just keep your head down and do the work and make sure you make the most of your apprenticeship by studying or doing relevant labs during your downtime.