IT Degree Apprentice Review

Throughout my rotations I have been given a lot of ad-hoc tasks which allows me to explore different areas of work but can be difficult to prepare for. Day-to-day I complete admin tasks but in the big picture I get involved in lots of larger projects and work-streams. My day-to-day work can change a lot at the start of my rotations but gradually I work up to more demanding pieces of work.

I have learned a large number of skills in my time here so far and every week I feel I am developing. The university aspect helps me gain written qualifications but in the office is where I gain professional skills like communication, time management, teamwork, critical thinking and effective public speaking to name a few.

Overall I have found the programme to be good. I've met great people who I really enjoy working with, even if the tasks aren't great. The university side has been disappointing at times but people at work are understanding and happy to help.

I feel very valued by SSE, if you put in hard work and put yourself in the deep end then your recognition and appreciation goes up. A bonus to this is people want you to get involved with more tasks and projects. I have received praise many times due to my work which is a great motivator.

Our induction was good, it helped us all value teamwork and grow as a group. The idea of rotating around and experience different areas of the business is great but only if you rotate into an area you enjoy. There have been times in my rotation where I've been trapped doing work I don't enjoy but as I've mentioned, people are on hand to help and you make the most of the area you are in. I feel the communication between the university could be better, there have been times where our lecturers are unaware of our situation and the workload can be quite demanding, as well as the deadlines.

It can be difficult to receive support when we are only at university once a week but every time I have asked for help outside of these hours, I have gotten the right help. 1-1 help has been good but if we go as a group with larger problems then they can take a long time to be resolved.

There are lots of people on hand who are happy to take time and walk through anything I have asked. There have been times where some people are too busy to meet with me which means I might go through a period where work can be difficult but overall support has been positive so far.

The pay we receive is sufficient and fair, it would be nice not to have to pay for parking.

Our company culture encourages getting involved in volunteering and helping our communities meaning there are lots of different ways to get involved.

Yes

I am content with where I am at the moment and very happy with where this apprenticeship could take me in the near future.

Work hard and challenge yourself