EDAS Software Engineer Review

Im an apprentice software engineer. However the work that your involved in from day one doesn't feel like "apprentice" work, I am genuinely part of the teams that I have placements in. I've worked on a wide range of products, from creating software to testing.

My knowledge of software has increased greatly and I often find that topics we learn at university have already been covered whilst in the workplace by learning from other professionals. It helps that most of your colleagues have done a similar degree and are able to tailor what they show you.

The best way to explain this is to say that I've been working on this scheme for nearly two years and it feels like only yesterday I started. Thoroughly enjoyable.

I feel very valued, within my first year our cohort of apprentices won a chairman's award, which is awarded for outstanding contribution to the company. This is an award most staff haven't received and to receive it within the first year shows how well we are valued. The only aspect lacking in this respect is personal recognition as the majority of recognition is always tied to the cohort as a whole.

As I am in the very first year of the scheme some aspects have changed at the last minute, but its a credit to the management that it has never really affected us negatively and they have learnt for future cohorts.

I study for my degree at UClan and generally they are very supportive and I send regular emails to staff to ask questions on topics I don't understand or assignment help and get quick responses. The only downside in the two years has been 1 lecturer who doesn't seem to understand the material that she is delivering and delivers it in a poor manner. Luckily management have been informed and steps are being taken to improve this.

I receive good support from BAE Systems. Management are flexible with things such as extra visits to university to have an extra session on a topic or arranging help for something we don't understand. The only issue regards support is sometimes it can be hard to get a response from the highest level of management on the scheme.

The salary is the highest in the UK for a scheme like this and helps a lot with adapting to the scheme. Some of us have moved to the area, whilst I drive myself and the costs of travel are affordable with the salary.

The company actively encourages participation at outside activities such as recruitment events, assessment centres and charity events.

Yes

Free degree. Paid to learn. It doesn't get much better, you are equipped with all the tools to build an excellent career and then its down to the individual.

Take your time with the application and ensure its free of spelling mistakes! If you make it to the assessment centre don't panic! Everyone is in the same boat. Good Luck