Apprentice Developer Review

In my day-to-day role I work as an automation test engineer for the development team on a large scale project. This involves making sure that the development code is properly tested using a wide range of tools, including Maven, Jenkins and JBehave (as the Behaviour Driven testing language). In my role I interact with developers who have a wide range of expertise and am encouraged to take part in active debate about solutions.

As part of my time in CGI I have had to adapt to and learn a range of new skills. Java is not my primary programming language, but CGI has enabled me to learn how to be effective in this language, and in the continuous release cycle required by my project. CGI offers a wide range of qualifications you can do alongside the apprenticeship, and I am looking to get involved in these over the summer.

Despite my long commute to and from the office, I enjoy the programme immensely. The team I work with are extremely helpful, supportive, and knowledgeable. They have helped me to become a real member of the team, supporting the development cycle without making me feel like an apprentice. CGI's culture has been fantastic, encouraging members to be involved in out of work activities (the sports and social club) and in charity events to help support the local community.

The program has been really well organised. The induction lasted 2 days, and allowed plenty of time to introduce us to all elements of the programme; including how our working days would be, and how the university part of the course would be. Each university programme member has been allocated their own mentor, who is typically someone in the company (and usually the same industry sector) who has years of experience in training, learning and industry experience. We meet with this staff member once a week to discuss work and study progress.

All members of my team have been incredibly supportive throughout the whole of my time in CGI. In particular my manager, who has been on-board to help me with most issues related to my understanding of the business. The HR department that CGI uses is fantastic. It is easy to use and navigate, making it incredibly easy to raise incidents and cases.

The University of Winchester has been supportive throughout the process, with a team dedicated to making sure that each apprentice is on target to meet the required standards for the qualification. All members of the teaching staff are on hand to help with questions throughout the day, and are typically prompt to reply to emails.

The degree element of my apprenticeship has been vital in aiding me throughout my working day. The theory I have learnt in the classroom typically applies to my role, especially elements covered the technical based seminars and lectures. The other, more managerial, elements of the course still apply in the office and shed light onto the importance of understanding how management works.

CGI offers its sports and social club as a way for members to be get together and enjoy free time. This involves events, and reduced ticket prices for members to company social events. CGI is always getting involved in the local community, and offers the chance for members to be a part of charitable events.

Yes

CGI have been an amazing company to be a part of. They call us members, not employees which makes a huge difference to how you feel about being a part of the team, and enabling apprentices to be a real and effective part of that team. This, alongside the university element of the programme, keeps challenging you to learn more and get involved in some complex real world problems that need great people to solve.

The application started with a Psychometrics test that judges how you think in different situations. Then there is a phone call with a member of the Students team, just to find out a bit about you. This is followed by an assessment center in which CGI evaluate what type of person you are. There are several forms to sign and fill out, but otherwise the on-boarding process is quick and easy.