software developr Review

My day to day tasks include creating front end web pages using HTML5, CSS3, AngularJS and bootstrap. I am also involved in maintaining the MongoDB used on the project, this can include creating scripts to add new items into the DB. I also sometime have to do some development in java for another aspect of the project.

I have learnt HTML5, CSS3, AngularJS and bootstrap website skills whilst working on the project at CGI. i have also had the opportunity to learn how to use MongoDB as a database for a website and also learnt a bit of java when working on another aspect of the project im on.

On the job training is the best way to learn in my opinion. It has also allowed me to gain knowledge of a working environment and how businesses operate. It has also allowed me to gain a wide variety of front and back end web development skills whilst on the programme.

I feel valued by CGI, there is good acknowledgement for work that has been done to a high standard as well as CGI always providing ways to gain new skills whether that be through training courses provided through the CGI training site, booking on to an external course or on the job shadowing.

Well organised, allows for training in new areas whilst on the programme in the form of CGIs skill base where you can do courses on topics that you feel you need/are interested in or booking onto external courses. there is also as support from colleagues whilst doing work who help to gain project specific knowledge when first starting out.

QA are very bad at communicating with apprentices, they tend not to really take an interest and most of the "skills coaches" tend to not really know what going on. QA in my opinion is a pointless expense in the apprenticeship program as most of the actual planning and organisation is done by the apprentices QA just show up at the end and act like they have been involved since the start of the programme. The training courses provided by QA were also in my eyes, a waste of time as the instructors didn't seem to be sure what they were actually teaching.

On the job training and the work environment allow me to be supported by those who are working in the same field and have more experience allowing me to gain more experience quicker. there are also clearly defined processes for going for promotions, and there also are DCDs which are people to talk to about project work or any work related topics.

The benefits scheme is good for an apprentice, there are many options to pick from that can be opted into if you feel that it would benefit you. the salary is also good and covers living costs whilst also allowing for excess disposable income, whilst not as high as some other apprenticeships is still a good figure.

There is a social club within CGI that organise events inside and outside of working hours. there are also other events organised by managers that occur every so often e.g. hackathons or other events happening in the local area. There are also events in the area around the reading office which provides things to do during lunch.

Yes

The people within CGI really make the company, they are all friendly and easy to talk to. They are also more than happy to help if you were to run into any issues. There are also many ways to gain experience in a variety of technology areas and you are encouraged to always try gain new skills.

Be honest with the skills you have, dont say you have skills you dont because if you get the job you may be put into a role that requires that skill and therefore you will be unable to perform your job. Also ensure you ask about base office to ensure that you do not end up being based in a location far away from where you live, unless you are already aware of the location you have applied for.