Delivery, Operations and Support Apprentice Review

I am based in the network operations centre at Adastral Park in Ipswich. This is a 24 hour operation and, as apprentices, we are stuck right into the heart of the action. There are a number of teams that each serve a different purpose with regards to the network operation. Throughout a 3/4 year period, we get to rotate around these teams.

Previously I had an understanding of HTML and various web-based languages. However, I had no idea there was so much more that goes into the transfer of data and content within a network and around the world via the internet. It has been a steep learning curve, but I've taken a lot on board.

While I get to obtain an understanding of how networks operate, as well as the full operation at Adastral Park, I also get to participate in a lot of additional activities. Its a very warm and friendly atmosphere and it feels like there is a genuine effort to help you develop as a person, rather than just learning the necessary skills.

While our program path is made quite clear to us when we start, I am sometimes left to feel that there isn't much structure to things. The teams that we are put with offer no fixed structure in some cases. The university liaison with BT has also been quite poor.

My manager offers a lot of support, helping me to develop and taking the time to get to know us as individual people. This support extends to the apprentice coaches, who ensure everything is on the right track. We also have assigned apprentice buddies, who are second year apprentices who have an understanding of the program as they have been through everything we have.

We have regular catch-ups to ensure we are up to speed on everything with regards to the NVQ we are working towards. With regards to the university course we are on, however, the liaison between the university and BT seems to be a little bit on the lacklustre side of things.

I feel the role I currently have within the network operations centre complements by university course and vice versa. I have had experience utilising a range of software in addition to learning about hardware that is necessary to maintain a successful network operation. As time progresses, I believe the two will continue to compliment each other.

Yes, a lot. There are a range of activities that we can get involved in as apprentices. We can help out with careers fairs and give something back to the apprenticeship scheme. We can also get involved with organising events and writing content for the newsletter. There are also various facilities on site that we can use including a sports hall and a gym.

Yes

It's very good. Lots of great opportunities to develop my career and we get a decent wage at the end of the program when we assimilate. We have a chance to experience a range of roles in different positions and there is a genuine desire for the company to develop us as people.

Get stuck into everything. Don't say no to any opportunities that come your way. Immerse yourself in the full experience here at BT and you will reap the rewards. There are loads of opportunities available the support is extremely good throughout the company. If you are seeking a career in technology then look no further.