Software Engineer Review

I am currently working as a software engineer on the HMRC account. My daily tasks include developing and maintaining COBOL/DB2 code for tax systems used by HMRC. My interactions include liaising with the customers to answer their queries or gather requirements for a piece of enhancement work. I often communicate to other developers in the team including the team leader as much of what we do is a team effort.

After my two year apprenticeship, I was awarded a level 4 diploma in ICT systems and principles. During and after the course, I was able to learn and develop my programming skills in COBOL and DB2. We work a lot using Microsoft products such as excel and Visio so my skills using those applications developed rather quickly. As well as technical, I have been given opportunities to enroll onto training courses such as presentation skills and even had opportunities to present to our customers some of the tools we provide them to use. This has enabled me to develop my soft skills.

I really enjoyed the higher apprenticeship program for many reasons. Firstly the brilliant people you get to meet whether they are your course peers or your work colleagues. The fact that you are being given a permanent role from the start, being able to promote and progress further in your career whilst studying for the apprenticeship is a very rewarding feeling. They even offer a brilliant opportunity to step onto a degree program fully funded by the company.

I feel I am valued by the company. I have been nominated to receive several achievements awards over the last couple of years and this shows they appreciate the hard work you put into your job and that you are often recognized for it.

The programme was well organized and structured. We would have regular meetings with our course tutor and he would give us the relevant guidance and support should we have needed it. The programme was tailored towards our specific job role within Capgenini as much as possible. This would allow us to use what we learnt in the job and apply it to the modules we had to complete and visa versa.

The training provider gave significant support throughout. We would meet in person on a monthly basis and communicate regularly via email in between each meeting.

The support I received from my career reviewer, my team leader and my colleagues have been outstanding.

I feel my salary is meting my living, social and traveling costs. The great thing about the apprenticeship is that you are given the opportunity to work hard and progress quickly from the get go.

There are opportunities outside of work with events such as staff parties and social club activities such as quiz nights and raffles. You can as volunteer to help organize charity events for causes such as children in need.

Yes

Its a large company with huge opportunity to learn new skills, meet new people and develop a strong career.

Never be hesitant to ask questions as you go. Take on opportunities as and when you can as this will help you develop your skills quicker.