Technology Apprentice (Second Year) Review

Business Analyst: I'm currently in my third placement and I'm working as a Business Analyst which involves working closely with project managers to support projects and do documentation. While being in this role I've worked on various different projects some of which have been out in the wider business meaning I have had the opportunity to travel to different sites. My two previous roles were IT Field Engineer and SAP Mobile Software support.

In my two previous roles I have learnt various technical skills which helped me support our infrastructure here at Severn Trent e.g. I learnt a lot about the Toughbook Devices that our field workers use and how to fix issues when they arose. In my current role I have learnt some basic Business Analyst skills e.g. how to deal with different stakeholders effectively.

I enjoy my role as it's quite varied and gives me the opportunity to meet lots of different people. The culture here is very friendly and most people are willing to help if you have any issues. Unfortunately sometimes if work dries up it can become boring at times.

I feel valued by the people I work with as I am sometimes given significant tasks to do which are important to the success of projects e.g. when I first started I was involved in two major project roll outs (CF20 & EE) where I played an important part of the project team by giving training and supporting end users. However sometimes I feel I can be a burden if I am having to ask colleagues for work when I don't have anything to do.

The programme has a general structure that is now stuck to but it took a while to establish what the structure was when I first started. e.g. how long placements are and how long the degree side of the programme is.

The support from BPP University is usually good if you have any queries about specific modules but this does largely depend on the tutor. For example I've had some modules where tutors are very good and helpful and others where they are not so much. The online side of the learning does sometimes make it tricky e.g. if you're struggling to understand a concept then not having someone to talk to in person can be frustrating.

Severn Trent are very good with support I feel that I can speak to technology colleagues or members of the HR team if I am having any issues.

The salary for this apprenticeship is very good and I'd say above average. However, due to my base location being located in a different city I have had to move out of my parents house and into a house share which takes up a decent chunk of my monthly wage.

There is volunteering days which you can do with your team which are really fun and a good way to get to know your colleagues. E.g. on my last volunteering day we built some fences from scratch at one of our reservoir sites and this helped me get to know my new team.

Yes

I'd recommended Severn Trent as the Salary is very good, the people are friendly and the training provided will allow you to get qualified in whatever field you wish for free. Also internal progression seems to be encouraged.

Take your time with your application and make sure you're fully prepared for the assessment centre. Don't be put off by the lengthy process.