IT Degree Apprentice Review

Whilst not attending University, as an IT Degree Apprentice at SSE I get full exposure to the way the company operates. My typical day at work consists of interacting with members of staff from a variety of roles and positions. The 6th month rotation concept means that I get to experience a different set of responsibilities and tasks in each department to fully understand what it's like to work within IT at SSE.

Although I have only been at SSE for just over 6 months, I have already begun my Degree at the university of Chichester. At the end of the four year program I will graduate with a BSc (Hons) in Digital and Technology Solutions. Already during this time I have had the opportunity to attend further internal training courses in IT as well as courses regarding safety.

I thoroughly enjoy working at SSE because of the friendly culture and atmosphere that is encouraged here. Coming straight from college into full time work, the thought of full time work was quite daunting for me but ever since day one everyone has been more than happy to help with anything and everything I might need. There is always something to do with a variety of extra tasks to do.

Being an apprentice at SSE doesn't feel like being an apprentice at all! Since starting here I've always been spoken to on the same level without ever been patronized or spoken down to. Encouragement and appreciation from managers is in abundance which leaves me feeling valued as an employee.

The induction to SSE covered everything from understanding what we'd be doing within our roles to how the company operates. A well structured plan for the next four years means that I have some knowledge of where I will be going after my rotation in each team finishes. SSE's relationship with the University of Chichester has been great so far with regular programme meetings to discuss how each semester has gone.

It feels like Chichester University treat us like full time students. Each of us have been assigned a personal tutor to assist us with anything we might want to talk about in terms of uni. Plenty of guidance and support from all of my lecturers so far.

Every member of staff I have come into contact with so far has been more than happy to support and give guidance on anything I might need. As well as a mentor at university, I also have a mentor at work who is happy to talk about anything happening within my rotation.

Great salary for someone of my age. Having University paid for is also another great benefit.

SSE encourages everybody to volunteer for one charity day per year. This is a scheme whereby staff can volunteer for the day whilst still being paid their days salary.

Yes

Overall great company to work for. Everyday I feel valued for the contributions I make however big or small they may be.

If I had to give any advise for somebody applying for SSE I would suggest just being yourself. Research around the company and their key values