Network Engineer Review

by Virgin Media O2

Best Apprenticeship Employer

Rating

7.6/10

1. Please give an overview of your role and what this involves on a day-to-day basis:

Proactive and reactive intervention with multiple telecommunication networks and customers. Ensuring the network is running and performing well with repairs, maintenance or reengineering.

8/10

2. Have you learnt any new skills or developed existing skills?

Training opportunities have involved PIA, NRSWA, Fibre Splicing, Pole climbing. I've learnt multiple networks such as Telco, HFC, FTTP, Core. Computing skills such as Routing, Switching, CLI/GUI, Servers etc.

8/10

3. To what extent do you enjoy your programme?

I have thoroughly enjoyed the learning, the diversity of the role, the opportunities and benefits. The apprenticeship isn't a direct fit for the role, some adjustments have to be made and some areas need learnt that aren't in the day job.

8/10

4. How well organised/structured is your programme?

Classroom training is structured at 3 days a month, and 1 day a week for study. The integration with other departments has not been smooth, it's not great having a week to learn someone else's role so that i can say i've done it, to be able to pass the apprenticeship. The apprenticeship is doing one job in the field while learning lessons in class that don't always relate to the role.

8/10

5. How much support do you receive from your employer?

Support is there when required and additional resources can be given. Could vary dependant on team/management.

8/10

6. How much support do you receive from your training provider when working towards your qualifications?

Feedback is given on work submitted. Guidance towards the end goal is provided.

7/10

7. How well do you feel that your qualification (through your training provider) helps you to perform better in your role?

It isn't always related. I have found the qualification isn't fully suited to my company/role, and to pass i need to learn tasks/roles in a short time that aren't my day to day job. Square peg, round hole (Kinda).

7/10

8. Are there extra-curricular activities to get involved in at your work? (For example, any social activities, sports teams, or even professional networking events.)

Team based ones are great, company based ones - don't get time for (are allowed, not doable tho).

7/10

9a. Would you recommend Virgin Media O2 to a friend?

Yes

9b. Why?

Great opportunity for a long career, lots of development and training, hopefully future progression, good salary during apprenticeship, amazing salary post apprenticeship. Great company benefits e.g. 14 weeks pat leave!

10. What tips or advice would you give to others applying to Virgin Media O2?

Do it if you are passionate about the industry and willing to be versatile. Research the role/company/industry.