Software Developer Review

After checking and catching up with any emails, the day usually begins with a meeting with other members working on the same project to discuss progress and plans for the day. A Jira board is used to manage the tasks required, where members can self allocate what they will be working on. This can involve working on front-end development and writing code using JavaScript and React.

I have progressed in my learning with technical skills such as JavaScript, HTML, CSS and ReactJS. I have learnt the important practices involved in this environment, such as following an Agile procedure. I have developed competencies required working in a team environment and opportunities for further development are always available.

Personally, I was displeased with the current training provider as I felt it was rather unorganised and a bit chaotic - this is not to fault CGI though. The lack of communication and unclear responses have made it rather difficult to progress with my apprenticeship. However, I do enjoy the environment and culture CGI offer.

The programme initially felt a bit unorganised when first setting up, but quickly picked up after a week or two. Overall, I would say it is well organised and structured since I feel I have been given the relevant details for the programme. However, some may find there to be a lack of structure, as there is a lot of freedom in terms of opportunities available which members are expected to act upon rather than assigned.

Support is widely available with my employer and given since my first day. My manager and director have provided me all the support necessary and helped answer any questions or worries I had. Despite the difference in knowledge, my colleagues are very willing and open to give me a helping hand if there is something I do not understand

Support from my training provider has felt a bit frustrating, as I feel there is a lack of communication and organisation. Information provided often contradicts information provided by another, which has slowed the progress of my programme. Despite this, they did manage to provide some support, scheduling monthly meetings when possible.

My training provider has provided me with what skills I should expect to learn working with my employer. This has helped me identify areas in which I need to work on to become a more well rounded software developer. However, the first 3 months of training with my provider was not entirely useful, as I felt I have not applied the knowledge or skills practiced within my role - it is more so that my employer themselves have helped me perform better in my role, which I have been happy with.

There is a sports and social club organised for each office, as well as competitions or volunteering/charity opportunities. Events are often subsidised and take place regularly, such as football or quiz nights. There is also regular workshops regarding personal development, such as a career days or mental health awareness. My manager will organise events for new joiners, as well as for holidays such as Christmas.

Yes

I really enjoy the working environment here; every person in my office is friendly and approachable - I do not feel discriminated as an apprentice. I have friends who have expressed concern and a lack of enjoyment with their apprenticeship, in which I can say I have fortunately not experienced. There is a ton of opportunities available for career and personal development, and members I feel are treated well.

Research about the company's values and culture before your interview - think about examples in school or at work where you have demonstrated CGI's expected competencies. Try to be more open-minded and step of outside of your comfort zone when it comes to learning new skills, as many various opportunities will be present to you.