Software Engineering Apprentice Review

I attend morning standups, shadow my team members and upskill myself in programming languages and frameworks like JavaScript and React JS. I also do university work if I have no meetings, shadowing or work to do. I am currently on a project and with that, I sometimes take work from my mentor and do it while they observe me. I have also joined other initiatives and attend meetings for those as well as any events or tasks.

I have learnt some basic JavaScript and how to automate tests using Selenese in Python. I did this alongside another apprentice utilising online resources. My command line skills have increased as well as familiarity with IDE's. I have also learnt about SDLCs, their implementations and testing techniques. I have undertaken a basic AWS course as well as a testing course which I have gained qualifications for. My interpersonal and networking skills have also developed.

I enjoy it as I feel like it is technical but most of it is self learning. It can be quite difficult to contribute to larger project work as the training isn't constant as team members are busy. But there are always people to help with other development skills.

Our training provider is very informant and the delivery of the course is structured. There is a very good dedicated team to support the degree learning. However, at work, the programme is not strongly structured and is very much dependant on the person themselves. On the job learning is not structured as there may not be anything to do during the day. The work day sometimes is filled with university work

The employer is very supportive with career development and upskiling. They provide a lot of opportunities for skill development such as external courses. There are a lot of people to talk to and get support form like the mentors, buddies and managers. There is a central apprenticeship team to help as well as others who are open to helping with career development.

The training provider are very supportive to help getting the degree. There is a dedicated team for apprentices that support with personal issues as well as helping with academic help. Tutors and lecturers are open to answering questions by email as well as hosting sessions to catch up with sessions missed. Older students are also open to helping and there is a lot of support available.

I feel like what is taught as part of the degree is not directly linked with what is learnt at work. However, the programming modules taught are applicable in the workplace as those are the specific skills needed as a software engineer. Other modules which look at work processes involve a lot of report and presentation skills so this helps improve my knowledge on how the workplace operates.

There are other extra initiatives available at work to help volunteer with charities and other social enterprises. Also, the team does regular socials which help others get to know one another more and network in a informal environment. There are also other societies that are cultural, interest based and more,

Yes

They are a very inclusive company and the amount of opportunities available in the different departments is huge. The people are friendly and open to helping others in their work lives. In addition, the technologies looked at the projects available to be a part of is very exciting. There is always something to get involved in and learn about.

When applying, it is important to show the interviewers your passions and real personality. Passions, enthusiasms and experience is valued much more than grades. When applying, it is best to stay authentic and not pretend to be something that the applicant isn't. Also, KPMG is very inclusive and are understanding of everyone's situations and capabilities.