Apprentice Software Engineer Review

Apprentice software engineer - Engineering Degree Apprenticeship Scheme. Work as part of a team in an office environment to learn about software lifecycle, write software code, review other's work, and tackle problems. Part time degree to complete too on some days - where we learn about electronics, programming, networking, and a wide range of other programming concepts.

Learned lots about the C++ programming language; became a STEM ambassador; learned how to work efficiently as part of different real world software teams who have many years of experience to provide the best help. Learned how to adapt to new teams easily through moving placements. Problem solving experiences, learned how to get support where it is required.

The program is very good - I enjoy it, although it can be quite challenging at times doing a degree, work, and long commute (of course my own problem and not a programme problem). The teams I have worked in have all been very approachable and are more than willing to help. There is lots of help and support available from managers; you are not left on your own. I travel 1hr+ commute to work each day and it is well worth the trip most of the time. The fact that you feel valued by BAES and your managers and teams is what makes the program enjoyable.

Your work is definitely recognised at BAES and you are rewarded for the efforts that you make. Managers are very friendly and can recognise all of the hard work that you put into the apprenticeship. Teams also value the work you do for them, and the more you do the more than willing they are to help. There are internal recognition schemes, such as Chairman's Awards, that really highlight how the Company recognises all of the hard work that you do for them.

Some teething issues as expected with a brand new scheme of this scale but seems to have settled down well now - management have been really good at sorting problems out. There is a good 1 week induction: you get site tours of both sites, shown around your work placements, shown around other interesting areas on sites - also get introduced to the teams you will be working in. There is a clear structure for work/uni which has been consistent for the past 2 years. You know who your managers are and you know who to go to when you need help. You can see your team hierarchy on an online portal. NVQ seems a little disorganised with changing opinions on what is right/wrong, however again just teething issues and not too much of a problem.

UCLAN is ok, however can sometimes be quite embarrasing as an organisation - poor organisation of timetables with lots of last minute changes, mistakes on actual exam papers (clearly not proof read), people always coming in late to lectures and being disruptive etc which doesn't seem to get actioned (apart from lectures moaning), disgusting facilities (keyboards) which don't look like they've been cleaned for the past 10 years. In terms of timetables; for example 1 session can be on one side of campus - then the next session is a +10 min walk in some cases on the other side of campus then lecturers unhappy that you're late which can't really be helped. Lectures seem to be timetabled to start at peak times (9am), which makes it a nightmare getting to/from uni and makes you stressed out before you've even started your day - and also very expensive to use trains. However on the good side lecturers are more than willing to help, in particular the computing course lead Chris - who will spend time going through concepts with you on a 1-1 basis if required. Most lecturers are friendly and approachable and reply to emails pretty quickly. Lecturers happy to go through coursework/exams with you and show you where you went wrong and how to improve for next time. All lecture content is available online as well as extra resources which is helpful.

BAES are very supportive as an organisation. Managers are always there for you, and the support they provide you with can't be faulted. BAES always aim to try and get the best out of you as an employee, and guide you every step of the way so that you reach your maximum potential. Managers actively listen to your problems and try their best to come up with the best solution for you. Overall, fantastic.

Salary is fantastic - travel costs are expensive (£50 a week in diesel) however salary covers this effectively.

Yes there are opportunities outside of work. When we first started the EDAS scheme, we went on an Outward Bounds course to build our team-working skills and to learn how to adapt to challenging situations. Another example is the Chairman's Awards, where you go to a venue outside of the workplace for a recognition ceremony for your hard work and efforts. Can't really comment much more as I've not looked into many opportunties outside of work before.

Yes

A very good place to work - feel valued by the employer, lots of help and support, a positive working atmosphere. Feeling values boosts productivity and makes you feel good about coming into work. Also affects your personal life too, and makes you happier as a person.

Just be honest and try your best - tell them everything that you've done in the past that could help your applicaiton, even if you think it's just a minor task. Don't be nervous - everyone is here to help and guide you through the proces, and always ask for help.