Software Engineering Apprentice Review

I am a software engineer, this involves creating custom software as part of a team based on business requirements. Currently I am using skills I am learning in college and eventually university into my day to day work. This can vary as I use various databases and computer programmes and I have moved departments to experience different types of work.

I have learned a great deal of new skills such as teamwork, communication and leadership. I have also enhanced many of my technical skills such as C# .Net, SQL and Agile. All the skills I have learnt are fairly interesting however although I am a software engineer it would be nice to learn other skills useful to the business.

I very much enjoy my programme. I have been exposed to both fantastic people and exciting projects, making it a pleasure to go to work every day. On top of this I get to work towards a full honors degree whilst being paid! I enjoy where I am currently working and i know the company has many opportunities for myself and other apprentices

I feel that Capgemini hold their apprentices with a very high regard, on every project I have joined I have received amazing feedback with people of all experience ranges willing to work with me and teach me new things. At some points I have felt less valued and my comments on certain areas have not been taken into consideration but as a whole I'm fairly happy.

My programme is fairly structured. There’s regular meetings and modules to compete which goes towards earning credits to pass the apprenticeship. We once had a problem with clashing dates and apprentices in the same department within our business and it took almost a month to resolve this problem.

I suffered a bit with my exams and with the way i was processing, so I took a test which showed I have symptoms of dyslexia. I'm not sure how accurate this test was but I have been offered some help. The programme leaders, and tutors have been very supportive and willing to help me develop myself.

We have reviewers, and "Buddies" who look after us and ensure we have a point of contact for any questions or help, and to make sure we're aspiring. We are sometimes sent emails asking how we are and how certain jobs are going and if we need help but i do not feel this is often enough. We do have a good amount of communication though still.

I feel that the salary is suitable for my costs. At the moment I have various bills to pay such as car maintenance so my salary is enabling me to pay for that. On my current salary though i don't think i could move out of my parents house (which is what i am currently planning to do) so i am set back probably another year at least for this.

Yes, there are conferences with clients, and global conference meetings to discuss the latest developments and ideas. Apart from other activities on jobs related to our work i dont think we hear enough from our local community and offer help for charities and other organisations but sometimes an employee will asked to be sponsored or offer information on an event.

Yes

it's a once in a lifetime oppurtunity, and the salary is fairly good, and will get better. The more you learn, you are given a chance to grow within the company and experience different programmes and get the chance to meet some really friendly people and friends for life. The company generally looks after your wellbeing and you won't have student fees to pay for your education and degree either!

Be yourself, showing off who you are is the best way to attract the right kind of attention. Be committed and ensure you work hard as it is not going to be a walk in the park, but the effort will pay off. Ensure it is right for you, do some research and make sure the apprenticeship lines up with what you want to do.