Software Engineering Apprentice Review

My current job role is a Software engineer/developer, where my responsibilities include writing code to create particular applications or programs, this also includes designing and creating test applications i.e. Squish

As i am still in my infancy of programming, i have learnt basics in JavaScript, Python and C++. I have also learnt basics in web developing languages such as, CSS and HTML5.

I enjoy the program, as the work is interesting and stimulates my interests, plenty of support is also available from my line manager, collegues and tutors from University. The work is manageable and is structured in a way, that allows your learning to be more efficient and kept in conjunction with the work being carried out at University.

I feel like a valued member of the team and not an apprentice, as there is a mature and calm atmosphere around the workplace. My collegues are polite and very helpful, which gives the impression that my education is a priority within the workplace.

I have been introduced to a Degree Apprenticeship (first of it's kind), so the structure of the course is still currently being tailored, this is to ensure that i understand the work at University and within the workplace, and the learning outcomes/objectives for work and University are similar, so there is no confusion or 'crossed-wires'.

There are support sessions available and 'drop-in' classes, that allows you to approach the tutor in a more confindential/private mannor so he can aid you with the work at your own pace. Also regular contact is maintained i.e. via email to ensure that work being set is understood and all available help and support is disclosed to the students.

A regular meeting schedule as been produced to ensure regualr meetings and support sessions occur within the workplace, this is to ensure that i am understanding the work being set from work and University, also to check whether i am finding the work load manageable or if any extra support is needed and if I'm generally happy with the course etc.

My current wage packet is sufficient for the daily costs that are imposed upon me i.e. travel, food, utensils and other equipment that may be required. Also there is a expenses system within my place of work (Marco Polo) that allows you to claim back any money, that was spent in favour of completing a job i.e. travel, equipment, food etc.

There are activities that are organised within the workplace that take place outside, this includes outdoor activities such as walking clubs, hiking, sports and cycling etc. There are also oppurtunities to take part technical activties such as Arduino projects etc. that allows staff to experience different parts of the business i.e. hardware.

Yes

Thales offers many oppurtunities within the business, to allow people to 'branch-out' or to further excel there knowledge in a particular area, there are also many oppurtunities to work abroad and in other places around the UK, which allows staff members to experience different sectors of the business i.e. defense, transport, security or space.

When applying for Thales, i would emphasise any key interests in sciences, mathmatics or technology in general, also to be honest in what you want out of the company, to determine the best course of action and pathway for your choice. Another tip would be to get involved, this expands your 'friend-network' within the business which allows you to gain access in to different areas or to gain different opinons or information of a particular subject. This will also get you recognised within the business, so there is a bigger chance for your name to be put forward for interesting projects, activities etc.