Degree Apprentice Software Engineer Review

Automation testing in a project within an API factory that produces API's, tests and releases them. Day to day basis consists of looking at API specification, creating test cases and then creating the actual tests within the chosen software (JMeter has been used so far). If there is not much work then I usually get on with university modules or revision. If not university work I just try to learn more about testing.

I have learned skills in automation testing and learned more about API's that are used. I had basic testing skills but in unit testing, whereas now I have branched out into automation testing. After the automation testing, I have begun learning about performance/load testing as well so I am slowly developing skills in that. Hopefully, after the performance testing skills have been learned I can develop into a dev role and learn about that.

I do enjoy the concept of degree apprenticeships and my programme can be quite challenging as there are multiple university modules with different projects or assignments/essays to complete all the while doing the day to day job role within my project. The day to day role can be quite dry at times with not much to do or it feels as if progression has slowed down but that allows me to utilise the time further by working on other development such as university etc.

The structure of the programme is set out quite well as the university handles all the modules etc and specification about the degree that we need to complete. This means that the university side of the programme is set apart from the day to day work within my project so therefore it allows me to balance out both aspects evenly. Also, the structure of the degree is set out clearly with what modules I need to focus on with the deadlines defined on the Aston University's website.

If I do need the support then I have the opportunity to reach out to my managers along with being given a buddy who I can ask for assistance too. If I am unsure about something and don't need to contact the manager or if it's not as formal I can easily contact my buddy instead who can be quite helpful.

For one of my modules, I have been given a skills coach whom I meet with every 6-8 weeks who I can discuss topics such as my degree modules along with my work life too. This has been provided by Aston University. Also, I can contact my module lecturers if I do require any further assistance.

I think that it can be quite beneficial as there are multiple modules within my degree at the moment , for example, one that includes problem-solving which I think I can develop into any tasks where I need to overcome issues. I can also learn about basics of computer development which includes some coding related tasks which can be used to develop further about knowledge of coding constructs.

There aren't usually many extra-curricular activities within my work but occasionally my team would organise to go outside to eat for lunch so there we can socialise a bit more. Also, I do have an upcoming team event where my work team will go out for dinner together which will be a first but there might be more opportunities in the future as I haven't been on the team for too long.

Yes

I think it can allow great opportunities for the future as you can develop experience in the technology working environment along with getting knowledge of computing related modules with the degree. Also, Capgemini allows a good opportunity for progression in the future and due to the vast size of the company there's many other roles that you can learn about or develop into.

I would advise that you be yourself as that would be the main point. If you don't think you can handle or manage doing almost twice the work compared to normal university or even normal work then you may struggle more than you think. It's important to either learn to balance work and university or its very easy to fall back behind on modules. Just try reflect your skills in the interview and let them know why you think you will be suitable for the role.