Network Higher Apprentice Review

I am a network higher apprentice/associate network engineer. I currently work fixing faults within BTs network. On a day to day basis I will talk with my team to find out any faults that I may be able to fix as well as shadowing them to see other jobs.

I am undertaking a NVQ/QCF as part of my apprenticeship which allows me to demonstrate certain skills. I am also doing a foundation degree in network engineering at university which has taught me foundations of maths as well as networking engineering so far. I have also done some internal online courses on the learning home in things such as IP networks (Networking overview, IP addresses etc.), MPLS and Network Access.

So far I have thoroughly enjoyed my time in this programme. I have worked in three different teams and have felt welcomed in every one. I have learnt many different skills and improved on existing ones in my time so far and feel that BT has encouraged and helped me to develop. The people I have worked with so far have all been great in educating me and helping me to perform any tasks.

The management so far at BT has been great. They acknowledge whenever you have met their values with the use of e-cards as well as a personal thanks. I have been given the opportunity to get involved with a number of tasks within the teams I have been in which has made me feel a valued member of that team.

The inductions we received were great. We went on a week long induction away when we first started which gave us an introduction to BT as a whole and also has a local week long induction after this to introduce us more to our specific job roles and teams. We are given one day off for uni a week as well as a separate study day which has allowed us to fully study for our degree. I have regular 1:1s with my manager as well as buddy meetings with a second year apprentice.

We receive great support from our apprentice coaches who organise regular reviews to check on our progression as well as meetings whenever there is something that they need to show us. We are always given support with our apprenticeship and learning for uni. Our apprentice coach has been great in sorting out any problems we may have as well as supporting us with our NVQ if we have any questions.

I have received excellent support from my manager in the time I have been here. I have monthly 1:1s to discuss what I have been doing and any problems I may have, I always feel that I can talk to my manager should I have a problem. I always feel as if I can go to HR should I have a problem and have been showed how to do so from my manager.

My salary meets my costs fine. I find that it meets cost of living as well as travel and never feel I am struggling or underpaid for my duties. As well as this my salary increases with each apprenticeship year.

There have been many opportunities outside of work including bowling events to encourage being part of a team. We are encouraged to volunteer and are given lots of different opportunities including volunteering for charities and helping out with schools.

Yes

I have felt incredibly supported in the time I am here by both colleagues and managers. I have thoroughly enjoyed working here and rarely if ever have a boring day. I am always given tasks to do and encouraged to improve myself. It is a great place to learn and develop yourself.

Research BT before you come, try and remember some facts about them such as what projects they are involved with, anything new they might be doing as well as the charities they are involved with. Try to show your personality as much as you can in the interview as you want to stand out, as an apprentice they won't expect you to know everything so focus on showing why you want to work for BT and show that you are passionate about learning.