BT IT Higher Apprentice Review

I work in the IP Networks area of BT's Technology Service and Operations. Within my 3 year apprenticeship, I get to rotate into a number of different roles to allow me to experience every different skill that contributes to IP Networks as a whole. This is split into 6 month rotations. Whilst working, I study an NVQ in telecoms, and study at a foundation degree in Network Engineering at University of Suffolk. This can be optionally topped up to a full degree. In my current rotation I am working as a delivery manager, this involves picking up technical projects and seeing them from start to finish. My current project is moving Ethernet Business customers in the UK over to new equipment.

I am studying NVQ, a FdSc (foundation degree) and will be topping up to a BSc in Network engineering. This is funded by my employer BT. I also take part in internal training courses to do with specific technologies such as fibre courses, Cisco CCNA.

I very much enjoy the programme I'm undertaking at BT, it gives me a wealth of knowledge in the technical area of networks, more so in my opinion that I could of gained from going to University. Everyone is friendly and always willing to help out, whilst you're given similar responsibilities to team members, you are expected to make mistakes and learn from them which is really good.

Because of the high level of responsibility I'm given such as running my own projects - I feel very valued. I've received recognition through TSO E-Card awards for saving the business money and Apprentice managers are very supportive.

My programme is very well structured. The 5 day week is split into 3 days in the workplace, one day at the university and another day is a study day. I can take this study day at my desk or in the many other buildings on site. The study day is good for catching up with NVQ and degree work.

From the provider of my NVQ I receive plenty of support and training to help me achieve my level 4 in telecoms. My university training provider University of Suffolk is not always available or helpful in support but luckily I can get the support I need from other apprentice peers in higher years who have gone through the same course.

I receive lots of support through regular 1:1's where my manager checks on my progress and supports me through any issues. Furthermore, my apprentice coach checks that my actual apprenticeship is going okay and that I am being supported properly within the company.

My salary more then compensates for my needs and costs. I live locally to BT Adastral Park so its a short 10minute drive. However, there are multiple bus routes from the train station direct to BT. The salary even in first year is way higher then the minimum wage and a lot higher than many other apprenticeship wages.

BT encourages a vast range of volunteering opportunities and allows 3 volunteering days away from work a year. The company also offers a variety of discounted leisure and sports facilities on some sites and discounts through the online employee portal. Apprentices are also encouraged to join telecoms events in London such as one's hosted by the ITP.

Yes

BT is full of opportunities and a wealth of different careers. The company is so large you can change your job to suit you. The training given is excellent and you are guaranteed a job at the end of your training.

Understand BT and its core values and relate to them.