Network Services Apprentice Review

I work in the Network Services platform within RBS which involves maintaining and managing various network devices for RBS's customers and colleagues. Some of the challenges of this role is allowing for change and improvements without compromising customer activity. Other aspect include responding to incidents when devices fail or are compromised.

I have developed a lot in my role and have been able to learn about technical aspects that play a role in Networking environments such as the OSI model, network device types and properties as well as network addressing schemes such as IP and MACs. I have also learned a lot about how IT equipment is managed in businesses environments.

The apprenticeship program has been very hit or miss and has issues in terms of the work that we have to complete. These issues include repetitive modules on basic content which makes for a poor learning experience. On the other hand classroom sessions are a positive highlight for the course.

The program has a clear and concise structure however in practice it has not been very well organised. Small things like lack of communication, delays and technical issues add up and lower the quality of the learning experience. I feel that this has happened because it is a relatively new course.

I have received all the support that I could possibly ask for from my employer in terms of supporting and training me in my role and giving me time to dedicate to course work. On top of that I have been provided with opportunities to pursue vendor led technical training funded by my employer.

My training provider is keen to support me whenever needed although sometimes availability has been an issue for them due to resourcing. Again, I feel that this is due to the course being relatively new and the large intake of apprentices when I joined. It is worth noting that support has improved gradually as the course has progressed.

I feel that a lot of my development has come through my work within my role. The qualification coursework that I do serves as a refresher/reminder of this development and gives me an opportunity to formally express my development. Aspects of development can be quite broad from professional behaviors to technical process and best practice.

I have been invited to birthdays, nights out and even to play 5 aside football with one of my colleagues from time to time. I also currently have a hiking trip planned with my team. As a whole I have been made to feel welcomed as part of the team from day 1.

Yes

From my experience it has a great mind for developing its colleagues. As a first role it provides room to develop and learn in professional and technical aspects whilst working and adding value. It is a great place to start as there is lots of room to advance your career within the company after your apprenticeship.

Understand the business - its goals, outlook, brands and history etc. Don't feel threatened if you feel you are not technically qualified or experienced for the course that you are applying for - it is an apprenticeship, you are here to learn whilst you work. Be keen to learn whilst adding value and you will succeed.