Apprentice Software Developer Review

The role is as an apprentice software developer. Daily tasks include doing assignment work such as website development, project management and programming. Some of the work tasks undertaken involve web development and Java programming. There's a mix of solo work and team related work.

The qualification gained is a Level 3 IT, Software, Web & Telecoms Professionals. Most training is done by in-house trainers with the occasional trainer coming from outside the company. You cover languages such as HTML, PHP, CSS, JavaScript and Java. The training provided is fairly average and nothing special. There are many opportunities to learn.

The work itself is fairly good. There aren't too many opportunities to partake in client work but this is due to having a fair amount of assignments to complete in order to pass the qualification. The fellow apprentices are nice people and easy to get along with. The trainers and other staff are generally friendly with the occasional not so nice trainer. Some of the trainers don't seem to view you as equals and give off the impression that they look down on you. The apprenticeship was fairly enjoyable with a few bumps along the way.

Some of the management show a major lack of appreciation for the apprentices and good work is hardly recognised. Some apprentices were given the option to be involved in projects more than others but this was due to apprentice ability. Overall apprentices aren't valued as much as they should be. Some staff are very appreciative of your work though.

Although the induction of the course went quite well the organisation of the course is very poor. With uncertainty of what's coming next and the occasional lack of proper training. Some of the training is very disorganised and it seems as if the trainers don't know what they're doing. There are various mentor meetings though out giving you the option to discuss problems.

Some tutor support was fairly poor although tutor meetings take place regularly. The meetings would be rushed.

There's also manager meetings with your assigned manager to discuss any problems and give guidance. Overall the support is fairly statutory and the accessibility of support is possible.

The location of the course is very central so is easy to get to. The Salary is sufficient and slightly above apprentice minimum wage standards as you earn £500 per month.

There aren't many company events or clubs but due to the course being in a central location there are many events and activities around there.

No

The course is fairly disorganised and it can be a fairly unfriendly atmosphere. You're not generally appreciated within the company.

When attending the interview make sure to be confident and explain all relevant experience. Make sure you don't pretend to have experience with certain languages etc as you will get found out! When you start the apprenticeship make sure to ask your tutors questions if you have any issues or don't understand something! They're there to help!! Good Luck