NGA Operations Centre Analyst Review

My day to day role is monitoring the Openreach fibre network. We provide fibre the millions of homes and businesses around the UK. We monitor the infrastructure of the network and are notified via an alarm system when there is an issue or customers have lost service. We are a 24/7 operational team.

I have developed lots of new skills since starting my apprenticeship. I have learnt to work in a team of people who are a range of ages, genders and have different opinions. I have been on training courses for electrical, office safety and other courses relevant to my role. I have also developed my skills in speaking in front of an audience.

I enjoy my apprenticeship much more than I expected to. I enjoy all aspects from the day to day role and the NVQ side too. I have been welcomed with open arms into my team and I get on well with all my colleagues. I feel safe in my office environment and the apprenticeship so far has exceeded my expectations

I do feel valued by BT. My manager regularly praises me with reward and recognition and my fellow team also make me feel valued as part of their team. Regular team nights out show that we are all valued by our manager.

The programme started off slightly unorganised where we were set up in the wrong line of business but that was quickly corrected. However we did have to wait a long time to receive our equipment such as laptops etc. which meant we relied on fellow team members for a long time. However since then the programme has been well organised and I attend regular 12 weekly reviews with my apprentice coach and have regular 121's with my line manager. I receive specified days for NVQ work and I am given lots of support.

My apprentice coach offers support everyday of my NVQ. He is available via phone or email and so I can easily contact him if I have any issues. We meet for regular 12 weekly reviews where I can discuss face to face any issues I may have. The support I have been given has been very useful and I am grateful.

My manager is very supportive of me as an apprentice. I am given special time to complete my NVQ work and am given support in anything I need. Regular 121's with my line manager mean that I can discuss any issues I may have and we can work together to help me through my apprenticeship.

My salary started off more than I expected as was much more than the average apprentice wage. I travel to work via public transport but my salary covers this cost and my cost of living is within means. Regular pay rises further help.

There are lots of events that occur that I can get involved in. I often receive emails from apprentice managers advertising events that I can attend. There are often lots of extra activities that take place outside of work such as sports clubs etc.

Yes

I would and have recommended a BT apprenticeship to a friend because I believe that it is a good start to a career with a solid stable company. The apprenticeship has been good for me so far and I think that anyone looking to get an apprenticeship should definitely consider BT.

For me the application process was slow so I would advise to be patient and prepare for your interview well. This is an important stage as it is the first time the employer will see you so first impressions are very important.