Junior Technical Architect Review

I work on many projects, all within my business unit. During a standard day I will work on designing and delivering solutions to technical problems. This can include firewall flow changes, deploying an application and planning and deploying a new site setup within a new building. I run the change management process for my projects and work to ensure the changes are successfully implemented.

From the apprenticeship I have been able to learn so many skills and technical processes. I have a Level 4 Deploma in It Competency and Skills from QA and I am currently working towards getting a BSc in Digital and Technology Solutions with the University of Winchester. I have developed my technical skills, with technology and firewalls while also working on communication.

I enjoy the work I do, and the people I work with. However, I believe that the material presented by the course is often dull and tedious to work through. I would also happily point out that the material that we cover is not related to the work we do but because the university don't want to work around the scheduling constraints we haven't a choice.

The part of the programme controlled by CGI is fantastic, but the university of Winchester let it down, with the university often changing requirements at the last minute and not giving clear road maps to explain how we are assessed and the requirements for the summative assesment that we are asked to complete.

Excellent support is provided. CGI offer a great structure of management and peers who are able to support me through my course. The general approach of members at CGI is that apprentices are treated like any other member and are able to do any work in the same way that anyone else does.

I have access to a wide range of skilled people who I can call upon for assistance towards my qualification. There is generally a good understanding of what we're working on and how they can help us with the course material. I have a mentor within the business that I can call upon for help.

I believe that the qualification I am working towards doesn't add anything to my ability within my role and is simply an excuse to gain a degree while working. I don't believe that the value given by the degree is related to the job I do at CGI.

No. CGI offer various benefits such as a sport club and various meetups and gatherings that I could attend, however I have no desire to attend these events and therefore don't attend. Outside of work I do rock climb, and this is a hobby I would love to bring back to the workplace, perhaps as a team building activity.

No

While CGI is a great company to work for, and the apprenticeship is acceptable - the limiting factor is that the salary is embarrassing for the work I am doing and quite honestly I wouldn't want to refer anyone else to the business for fear I'd be exposing how poor the salary is.

When applying, just be yourself. CGI want to see that you have a genuine interest in technology or the business that you're applying for - and if you can demonstrate this with examples of you working on IT systems outside of school then that comes back to the review meeting as a huge bonus