Applications Consultant Review

Applications Consultant - currently doing PMO and project management work. Work on a client site within an internal team so interact with both client and internal employees. Am based in a senior management team as most of the work is completed offshore. Most of my daily tasks include working with the team to ensure that projects are running smoothly and are going to meet the clients expectations and timelines. As well as project management, I complete lots of smaller roles which help the team as they are able to sort out any larger issues which may occur. I am now on my second project( 6 months at each client) so I have had two different roles, previously I was doing website development work - by being able to try different roles for 6 months, I am able to see what I enjoy the most and decide my career on this - as IT is such a large sector with so many different roles.

I have gained project management, team working, professionalism, personal and web development skills. I have gone from knowing little about what is involved in a complex website to knowing how to develop one which meets the clients needs. In the past 9 months, I have learnt a lot more than I would have imagined and there are definitely more opportunities to grow even further before my first year within the company is up.

Capgemini is such an amazing company which really cares about growing its employees and allowing them to have the freedom to do a role which engages and motivates them. The work is challenging but enjoyable and there is a good work life balance which the company is constantly checking to ensue it stays that way. I am able to book study leave as well as annual leave which is great as it means I can have dedicated study times. I would recommend this apprenticeship to anyone who is looking for a career within IT.

I definitely feel valued within Capgemini - they don't treat my like an apprentice but a regular employee but with all the activities which apprentices get to be involved in! We have regular reviews from our managers and are constantly encouraged to get involved and work hard. I am evolved in large projects and am definitely recognised for working hard and getting the tasks done.

Capgemini programme is clearly structured and organised - we had a week long induction and then an 8 week intensive university course to start our studies. We have regular catch-ups with our mentors and managers (weekly) which is really helpful for any questions or problems. The mentors are students who have either completed or are a few years ahead. As mentioned previously we have study days and the managers work with you so that you can make lectures. Lectures are a couple of times a week online in the evenings and are recorded. We stayed on campus for 8 weeks at Aston so we got the university experience and when we go for on campus days we stay in the on campus hotel which is great.

Aston university are super helpful with all lectures and problems that may occur. They are very responsive to any problems or difficulties which we may have, and lectures are live and recorded so we are able to ask any questions then, as well as having dedicated 'q&a' sessions weekly. I enjoy the work which we are given and the topics which we are learning and it is great that it is the right intensity considering we are all working full time.

We receive regular guidance and support from our managers, mentor and Apprentice manager which is great as there is always someone you can ask for help or support from. The attitude towards supporting us is amazing and people are always willing to spend time with you to ensure that you are fully challenged and enjoying the work. Capgemini has a dedicated support programme for any problems outside of work which also extend to our family members which is amazing. Capgemini work to ensure that our work life balance is good and that we are not struggling to keep up with the balance between full time work and university.

The salary is a good level and we are given the opportunity to increase it. Capgemini fund my daily travel costs as I travel to London daily. My living costs are not too expensive and I can easily afford to not live at home whilst on my salary. Daily costs are not too bad and we are given free tea and coffee at a Capgemini site, and a £5 daily limit when on a client site which is great.

There are so many company events which are held for both apprentices, and women in business. I have attended at least 7 or 8 in the past 6 months which is great. I have been to women in business events which have been fully funded by Capgemini as well as completing a community project for disadvantaged children in my area. There is a definite friendly environment within Capgemini and that really shows when they hold events - I wish I could attend more. I am also taking part in the Palace to Palace charity cycle ride, which Capgemini paid the joining fee for both me and my boyfriend so we could get involved and raise money for the princes trust.

Yes

There are so many opportunities, no debt, an amazing environment and you are definitely not treated like an apprentice! Not tea and coffee making!! The best decision I have ever made was joining Capgemini and I will be staying here long after I finish my apprenticeship as I feel valued already.

Capgemini will train you in what you don't know, so show your personality because we are all about people, show you can work hard but also have fun and be passionate! People who work here are passionate about what they do and learning more! The apprentice on boarding week was probably one of the best weeks I've ever had! And staying 8 weeks on campus at Aston university meant that I've made the best friends who support each other every day!