Early Careers Apprentice in User Experience and Design Review

Daily tasks and interactions always include meeting with colleagues from different disciplines (product, engineering, QA, certification) to discuss what work the team has on and what our plans our for the day. Specifically in UX, there are often discovery projects to get involved in, and I can take whatever responsibility in these I feel comfortable with.

Yes, I have learnt a lot of technical skills in Adobe products, Figma, Miro, Jira and much more. I had never worked for a large organisation and online like this before. I have also developed my existing communication and presenting skills that come with meeting new people and sharing your work.

To a very high extent. I feel stretched and fulfilled in my work at the BBC, but also in my studies. There are always opportunities to learn and grow, which I take advantage of.

Organisation from the academic side follows modules and assignment dates, which are prepared well in advance. In terms of on the job work, this is a little less structured but this is expected when working for a company with changing priorities and roadmaps. It doesn't feel disorganised, you just have to be more flexible!

Lots of support. When I joined I was allocated a buddy, a line manager and a mentor (each with different roles) that I have regular catch ups with to discuss any concerns or worries. Alternatively, there is a whole new talent and early careers team that I can reach out to for more apprenticeship-specific advice.

Similarly, the university has skills coaches in place to liaise with the workplace staff. This ensures that a full picture of my progress is painted for both the BBC and Manchester Met. There is also lots of support from module leads and tutors for specific advice relating to a unit or assignment. Furthermore, workshops known as study skills sessions take place both on-campus and online to ensure that my adjustment to university work is smooth.

It is dependent on what rotation of my role I am in. For now, I would say massively since the theory I have learnt so far in Year 1 has been directly applicable to my work in the CBeebies Apps Team. However, I can see where certain modules in the future may not align, or that specific team projects aren't always centered around what is being taught at the moment.

Lots, there are communities called staff networks that allow you to connect with others and network. I am part of the apprentice community and Young Talent network that regularly host social events and communications via d-lists.

Yes

There is a lovely working culture, and it really feels like there is something for everyone!

Be yourself, the interviewers definitely put you at ease and want to know about your hobbies and interests rather than conforming to a job description.