Software Development Apprentice Review

My job involves programming on various different projects. My current main project is my own which is to create a website which my development team can use to monitor our services. This website will allow us to easily see where data is being sent throughout our other projects so we can more easily diagnose issues if any arise.

I have learnt many new skills since starting my apprenticeship. I came into this apprenticeship already with some skills such as basic knowledge with Java. However since starting, I have worked with Scala (based off Java) and some JavaScript for the front end by using React. I have been able to experience both the front end and the back end this way.

I thoroughly enjoy the programme. I enjoy software development so when an apprenticeship became available, I was quick to apply. I am able to work on an area every day which I enjoy, all at the same time of learning new skills which I can use later on in life for which ever role I decide to take on.

I have found the structure of the programme to be well organised since day one. My training provider have given a very clear plan of the course since early September so we were perfectly aware of any deadlines for coursework and exams far in advance. The only issue I have encountered was it can take some time for feedback to come back to us for coursework and the exam wasn't well described to us, so we were unaware of what to expect in the exam.

My mentors in my team are always available to provide any help I need with my project. I feel comfortable being able to approach them with any question I have. They always try their best to answer the question in simple terms so I can understand it and they are always willing to organise a face to face call to explain in more detail if needed.

Support has been good from my training provider, especially with layout and plans for the assessments. However I feel the assessments could be explained in more detail more as we can be left in the dark as to what should be included in coursework. As mentioned before, one of our coursework report's feedback was given to us too late for us to act upon the feedback in a similar report.

Currently in the first year, there is one module which is based around software development. This module is very basic and is meant for beginners to programming, so was pretty straight forward and didn't provide me much benefit with programming. However, the modules in years 3-4 are more programming based so I feel this will help me in my role later on.

There are activities available and these are displayed to all colleagues through the intranet. The list is updated regularly and any staff member is able to provide an activity to list on the page. I personally haven't attended any of these activities but it is nice to know they are available.

Yes

Jisc is an enjoyable company to work for. Everyone is really friendly and I get on well with all colleagues I meet. We are able to sit down with colleagues outside of work and socialise. I feel this helps us at work as we know we are more of a family rather than work colleagues.

I would really recommend anyone applying to Jisc to enjoy what they do. The interview process is designed to show how you think about a certain problem. It isn't about what you know, it's about your thinking and how you learn and adapt to a new working environment.