Software Engineering Apprentice Review

I am based in the smart buildings team and most of my work consists of coding projects with other teams. I have a weekly stand up session with my team where I tell them my progress on current projects I am working on. Currently I am working on developing a web application for internal use within the company, and I developing the front end of the application e.g. the website

I am working towards my Computer Science degree at Queen Mary University London. I learn 3 modules a term, with one of those modules being a work based module and the other two modules are campus based. Internally I have developed a lot of soft skills as well as gained a lot of software skills, coding in various softwares.

I would definitely recommend anyone considering to do a degree apprenticeship in computer science to apply. I work in a diverse team, and the company culture is really appealing. Working for Arup has exceeded my expectations and I have really enjoyed working for this company over the last 2 years.

We had an induction week as soon as we joined the company, where we got to meet all the other apprentices as well and got to know the company's core values. Overall the programme is quite well structured, with a thorough outline of what happens in each year during university. Any issues that I encounter have been dealt with swiftly and sorted out. I am assigned a line manager as well as a mentor, and have a regular catch up with both. The tasks I do day to day are interesting and challenging.

I receive a lot of support from my manager, who has regular meetings with me to catch up and check if I'm on the right track. The HR team offers support regarding the partnership between work and university. Having a mentor has been extremely useful as I get to ask them any questions I have in either work or university.

Queen Mary is one of the world's leading universities in research and the modules which I study are interesting. I have a meeting once a semester with my personal tutor, where I have the opportunity to bring up any issues I have either at university or work. There are many facilities available for extra cirricular activites.

I am able to apply what I am learning at university into my day to day role at work. For example, last semester I studied a module on databases and was able to apply that to a live project I was doing at work. I am able to apply the theory I've learnt into practice. I feel like I know more about my role in the industry as a result of my qualifications.

Yes I play football, cricket and badminton at work. All teams are social and great to play for after work and are a good chance to meet other people across the firm as well as companies in the same industry and expand your network. Most social events are funded by the company and I believe it is one of the many perks of working for the company.

Yes

An amazing company to work for with great benefits and perks. A diverse working culture and a great work-life balance. Would definitely recommend to anyone thinking of applying for degree apprenticeships in the computer science area.

Just be confident and be yourself. Express what areas you are interested in during you interview and make sure that you research the company well beforehand.