Network Operations Trainee Review

I work in Network Operations Support and we deal with any issues that arise on the network. I deal with internal customers and make changes to network devices in the evening after close of business. I get many projects, ranging from dealing with Wireless access issues or configuring devices and sending them to our datacentre to be installed.

Nomura have been outstanding when offering courses for my development. From fire marshall courses to manual handling courses and studying for a CCNA. I have gained a CompTIA A+ qualification, and will soon be taking the CCNA exam. I have learnt a lot in my job role. I am in the Network Operations team and offer first line support to internal customers mainly. I make changes to the network devices in the evenings if required, so I have got some experience in configuring Cisco routers and switches. Other than technical networking skills, I have learnt a lot of other key skills which could be incorporated into any job I have in the future. For example communication skills, teamwork, general problem solving, organisation and mainly confidence to speak when I don't understand something or to voice my opinion.

I enjoy going to work, and do not miss going to school. I used to struggle to get up to go to school, but I do not get that problem now when getting up for work. I like learning on the job and working within a team. This apprenticeship has surpassed my expectations and I have relished the opportunity to meet the diverse group of people within Nomura.

My manager is always interested in what I have learnt. He supports my development a lot and offers guidance where possible.

My programme is well organised at Nomura. They make sure we hit deadlines on work and provide courses for us to progress with our NVQ units.

I recieve a fair amount of support from JUST IT. They provide me with a wide range of training courses and i have been able to under take the CCNA, when it usually isn't on my type of apprenticship scheme. They have also provided me with resources to pass exams and courses. The communication between me and my assessor at JUST IT isn't great via email. He often doesnt reply on urgent matters, so that is a major detail on which my training provider can improve.

Nomura always have our best interest in mind. HR provide a lot of support when dealing with our training company as they want to see us progress in the time we are here.

My salary suprasses my costs. I was very suprised with the salary offered when I first joined Nomura as it was nearly double the normal apprenticship wage. No complaints here.

There are a lot of events which I could get involved in. There are always a lot of volunteering opportunities.

Yes

Because of the friendly atmosphere and the incredible learning opportunities. I have learnt so much in my last year here, more than I would have done at schol or college. It is a great start to kickstart your career.

This should be when applying for any job, but do not lie on your CV or in interviews etc. Be prepared for a long and intensive recruitment process with Nomura. On the day of my interview, it started off with a group activity, and we were assessed on our ability to communicate and how we work in a team. After 30 minutes to an hour, I had 3, 30 minute interviews with different people from the company. We were also given a tour of One Angel Lane. Nomura covered everything I needed to know when first joining. There was a two day induction process in which we were told all of Nomura's policies etc. Take everything on board!