IT Infrastructure Review

On a day-to-day basis, I am involved in all aspects of IT infrastructure, along with "business-as-usual" tasks. I am mostly involved with the on-boarding of new colleagues into our environment, providing technical support, monitoring our network for any issues, and ensuring that we are compliant with any governance requirements set down by the company. Along with this, I am expected to complete any apprenticeship work - I am given enough time for all of this.

As my team has a broad range of skills, I have learnt many new skills and developed existing skills. Mainly, my networking abilities have been improved heavily due to my day-to-day role. Also, my technical knowledge of IT systems and the ability to troubleshoot any issues. Along with this, my own confidence has improved.

The programme itself covers all areas that are relevant to IT and telecoms. I felt that level 6 was very easy, but this may be due to having prior knowledge of the topics. Level 8 is already looking more technical and advanced, which I am happy about. The work that I complete at work is self-explanatory and I am comfortable in completing this in my own time. The off-site training has improved massively in recent times and we are now having more practical sessions, whilst also completing the work. The work has taken time to be marked and sent back, which can be frustrating as it is easy to lose track of what still needs marked, whilst also working on other pieces of coursework.

The coursework is relevant to the programme, so it is all useful. There are now off-site training courses for most modules and these are also improving and occur when they should. As mentioned, the time it takes to receive feedback on this work is very inconsistent which can be frustrating. The time-frame to complete level 8, compared to level 6, has been reduced heavily to fit in the work - this means more work will be required within the workplace. Although this is okay for me, some other apprentices may struggle.

I receive a lot of support from my employer - mainly my manager and those in my team. I have regular one-to-ones with my line manager where I am free to discuss the work and if I have any issues. I am given enough time to complete my work role, along with my apprenticeship work. I am also given the time to attend any off-site training courses.

During the training courses, we are given a chance to discuss any issues with the instructor, and they will provide as much support as possible. It can sometimes be a struggle to receive a quick response via email, which can be frustrating. There was face to face sessions with our apprenticeship mentor, however at this moment, we are unsure of who this is and if these will continue to happen.

I am very confident that the qualification, and the work leading to the qualification, will be extremely helpful in helping me perform better in my role and future career. I will pursue further learning and hope to continue improving myself so that I can become as qualified as possible for my role.

Through the company intranet and our own social media platform, there are many groups that colleagues can get involved in - ranging from hobbies such as sports to food. There are also opportunities to learn new skills and build on personal development skills - this includes skills such as networking and communication.

Yes

The environment is a great place to work in, with a lot of flexibility and great support from colleagues and management. The work I am involved in is always changing and keeps me on my toes. I am hopeful for a good future here and would recommend this to anyone who would like to get involved in IT in a big company with great benefits.

I would ensure that you apply with a decent knowledge of IT - especially a technical knowledge. This will be a massive help as it is a technical course and a basic knowledge will not cover all the bases. I would also ensure that you have a professional attitude, not only in your day-to-day role, but any apprenticeship work and off-site training courses. There also has to be an understanding that the workplace role and the apprenticeship work are both required for completion of the course and securing a permanent job.