Software Tester Review

I work on the Smart Metering Programme and my day-to-day role involves liaising with different clients to coordinate the procurement of devices. My team works alongside other teams and are constantly working to meet tight deadlines. I am responsible for keeping a variety of documents updated which can then be passed onto test teams.

I am currently studying towards a BSc Digital and Technology Solutions with specialism in Software Engineering, after 3 years at CGI I will gain this qualification. CGI also offer the opportunity to go on any relevant training courses. During my time at CGI, I have been able to develop my professional skills such as communication and decision making. It has also made me become more aware of how I come across on phone and email conversations.

The main thing I enjoy about the programme is the opportunities I have been given. There is not roles within the company especially made for apprentices, instead you work in the same role as graduates/experienced hires. The team I am part of are very friendly and were welcoming when I joined. All the staff members I have interacted with have been friendly.

We were given 6 weeks of training when we first joined, however this was not all directly relevant to the roles we would be going into. However, this gave the people running the training course a chance to get to know us and decide where we would fit well within the business. We are given a mentor and a buddy when we join who are able to support us with both university and workplace queries. I have found the mentor system very beneficial and have found it to have a positive impact on both studying and working.

We are able to have weekly meetings with our mentor to discuss any university/workplace queries - mentors are also around at all times to answer questions, not just once a week. My people manager plans a catch-up meeting with me monthly to discuss career aspirations and any problems encountered. There is always someone I am able to go to with any questions I have, if the person is unable to answer the question they are usually able to direct me towards someone who can help.

Due to there being many students at University of Winchester, we don't get too much support from them. Tutors are able to sometimes answer questions if we get in touch by ourselves, but are sometimes not helpful. As we only go to the University one day a week, it isn't possible for us to show up to the tutors office if support is needed. Despite this, I was still able to gain a decent grade in my assignments.

Despite the degree being in technology, due to the large amount of different modules it is hard to coordinate them to always be relevant to what we are doing in the workplace. My workplace role is closest to software testing, this is covered in 1 module during the 3 year course. Despite this, there are modules that I am learning about that knowledge could be applied to future roles.

We are able to volunteer to take part in Student Recruitment events, these vary from open evenings to UCAS events. There is also a Sports and Social Club which we are able to join for £5 a month, through this we get the opportunity to go to a variety of events. As there is a large number of apprentices, we often plan events amongst ourselves so we are not always thinking about working/studying.

Yes

Throughout the recruitment process, CGI kept me updated constantly and were able to answer all the questions I had. They were able to provide me with £1000 towards relocation. I am able to work a normal role and be given responsibilities whilst being able to study for my degree alongside.

I would give the advice of making sure you read through your CV and application form thoroughly before applying and be sure to research CGI. If you get to the interview stage, I suggest thoroughly reading through your CV and making sure you know what everything means in case you are questioned on it. Make sure to be yourself for interviews/assessment days. If you have any career aspirations be sure to let CGI know as they may be able to help you meet these. Make sure you ask any questions you have throughout the recruitment process - no question is too silly.