Application Consultant Review

I'm an Applications Consultant working in a development role for a project made up of a small in house team of me and four others. My day to day work involves monitoring checks, investigating reported issues, and finding ways to improve our process i.e. plenty of problem solving. I interact with all of the other project team members almost every day.

The apprenticeship program starts with an 'Accelerated Learning Environment', staying on campus at Aston University whilst learning Java and SQL fundamentals. Although I had done some Java before, this was a massive learning experience for me, and really cemented my basic programming knowledge. When moving into the office, I was immediately provided with training and given exposure to the systems I would be working with to allow me to learn. I hadn't used Linux prior to this, so I've now learned a lot in that area.

Capgemini have really pushed the apprentice program in recent years so there's a massive network of apprentices in various places in the UK. The initial training period proved a great format to get to know people in the same boat as you that can form the basis of a excellent support network. There's a real culture of 'help each other out' among apprentices as well as the wider staff. People are really willing to help you out and answer questions (which you will have a lot of). I have had previous office experience, so the culture/office environment feels a little outdated and stuffy compared to what I'm used to, but this is minor and something Capgemini seem to be trying to effect change on.

Since joining the quality and emphasis on training has been amazing and we are often reminded that we are valued despite our entry level position. I was included in a project from day one and have been supported along the way. I have received plenty of encouragement with external training and the opportunity to attend external events related to my role as well as my interests.

In terms of the actual apprentice program, very well. Induction, training and studying has all been very well structured and everything has been clear and informative. The degree work is clearly structured and explained from the outset of each module, with a teaching timetable provided at the beginning. Although I was placed on project straight away when I arrived in the business, I know that others weren't and had to wait around for security clearance/a vacancy on an account. This meant they had a good few weeks of having very little to do, which can be frustrating. I did not experience this myself however.

Throughout the training period, support from the provider was excellent and questions were welcomed and always answered. The tutors we had for ALE were knowledgeable, supportive, and patient, and they always explained and taught new subjects in a manageable way. The interaction we had with tutors day to day really helped with the learning process. I have not had a need to contact any tutors since I started the distance learning part of my degree, but they have outlined how I can do so if necessary.

From day one in the office it has been consistently emphasized that we should not be hesitant to ask questions; this proved helpful in the weeks that followed. My manager made an effort to ask regularly how I was enjoying the project when I first started, and told me to let him know if I had any concerns which was reassuring. I have also been assigned a 'buddy', someone a few years ahead of me in the program who has answered any questions I've had.

It's pretty good for an apprentice wage but considering I moved away from home it has me spread thin. Thankfully I live in an area where living costs are low, so this helps. There is a clear pay structure though, with pay reviews taking place every six months after your first year with the business.

The location I work in is a small base further north of the main, bigger offices so there is little in terms of company events/activities. There has been a push to change this in recent weeks though, so it's not an issue that's being ignored. In terms of voluntary opportunities, again it seems a lot of events/opportunities are London/Midlands-centric so there is little opportunity to get involved. The location is fine though, with a town centre high street on the doorstep and good transport links.

Yes

I have felt valued by Capgemini from the outset and the push to learn new things constantly has been a great driver for me so far. Staff are friendly and there is an emphasis on the support network, particular among apprentices. It's a company that ready and willing to keep up with industry and cultural changes, and they foster a nurturing environment for apprentices with emphasis on immersing you in work/training immediately rather than leaving you on the back burner.

Be yourself and don't be afraid to ask questions - this seems to go down well during interviews/assessment days. Take advantage of every opportunity and if you're successful, throw yourself into the induction/training/onboarding process so you can gain as much as possible from it. It's a great way to meet new people and start your career alongside a company that's willing to keep up with it's newest and youngest recruits.