Analyst Programmer Review

I am currently working in the database and application team as a SQL developer. My daily tasks would include creating new databases, backing up and restoring client databases and write scripts to extract data when required. As I come in the office every day - I interact with everyone around me by either approaching them or vice versa. I also get contacted via Skype or my phone number when required. My responsibilities would include making sure every software is working properly and if something doesn't work to raise an incident and try and fix it. We don't really have one particular project - we just get put on different projects as and when required.

Yes I have been on so many training in the past year which has helped me gain more knowledge around software development which is my end game. Even at work I've learned a lot by shadowing people and learning from them on how to handle system issues and how some of the tasks we do are fulfilled.

I am really enjoying my programme as I get to work with lots of different people and change teams every so often. The team I currently work in are very helpful and always making sure I understand what I am doing. The culture at my work is very nice and welcoming as I am the youngest in my department everyone takes good care of it.

Yes I feel valued by CGI as my managers recognise my work and complement me for it. I get approached by a lot of peers for help and they always value my work. Due to this I get given a lot of different tasks which allow me to use my skills and enhance them.

Its very organised in the sense our training blocks were pre booked so we were able to let our managers know the times we were going to be out on training. Over at work, I am able to speak with my career manager about what is in plan for me which is always good as that way we can set some small goals.

My programme was structured to start with, but as time went one - we started facing difficulties with our skills coach as he had left without letting us know so for around 2 months we had no assistance and help on our coursework, which put us behind schedule to some of the deadline we had to meet. One thing I would say is that if a training block clashed with something, it took a really long time from them to rebook it and the provider needed constant reminders for it. Other than that the skills coach and the training assessors were helpful in the training blocks and ensured that we understood the tasks and coursework.

A lot of support is provided in terms of my programme. If I am not happy with something I am able to go and speak with my manager who then guides me in the correct direction. My career mentor has also been very helpful as we are able to set a plan to where I should be in a couple of months.

My salary is good but I didn't get paid for my travelling costs to my training blocks as we have to set off the work to base office off. When I do that I only get around £1.50 back from £87 I spent per week on training when I went to London. This was a shame and a lot of other apprentices were able to claim nearly all of it back.

Yes there are a lot of opportunities outside of work as we can join sports clubs which enable us to meet new people and play with them. I've recently joined the badminton club and I must say its been a great decision as I get to go out of the office at lunch time to have a little fun and exercise. We can also help on open days at schools and colleges and promote our business/ apprenticeship.

Yes

The apprenticeship is very well and I would recommend it to all as we get a lot of exposure to clients and how work is done in the real world. CGI also take good care of their members and make sure we are always satisfied. Every so often we get given mandatory training courses to brush up our knowledge which is always a bonus.

All I would say is to be prepared and be confident for your interview. Ensure you know about the company as you may get asked about CGI and what services they provide. Just be passionate about why you would like to do this role and how it will impact your future.