Software Developer/Analyst Review

I am a member of a level 3 support team working on a large banking application. My typical day involves investigating incidents in production, providing solutions and making code and/or database changes. I work with a multi-national team being involved in meetings and other Agile methodologies. I get involved in as much as possible from technical Java to helping with charity events

Since starting my apprenticeship i have learnt so many new skills. As well as improving my soft skills. I am now much more confident talking in front of large groups and making my voice heard among more senior people. Some key skills i have learnt is communicating and teamwork. The technical skills i have learnt are coding in multiple languages. Working with databases. Being a member of a DevOps team

I really enjoy my programme. It has pushed me so far out of my comfort zone and has been a real challenge. I wouldn't want it any other way. I am constantly striving to become more effective in everything i do and the structure of the programme has helped that immensely.

The structure has been great. It is well thought out and provides an opportunity to become more rounded with your skills. The chance to learn from experts by working as an equal rather than just in a classroom situation. However, it is not perfect. The academics side to the apprenticeship can seem a little forced and badly managed. I believe it is just as important as the on the job learning but doesn't always get given the time and respect it needs.

There is always support there when i need it but you have to seek the support. This is something that took me too long to learn but i believe this lesson is a key lesson you learn from apprenticeships. If you want something it is nearly always there but you need to get it yourself. My team are great at helping me but often find themselves too busy to support me as much as they would like

My training provider has supported me lots. I completed training with QA who were great and providing resources and the support while learning was always there. However, sometimes i could not always get the time with them as soon as i would have liked. LJMU support me lots. Although they have not been the most organised they have supported me whenever asked.

Yes. The coding i have learnt from my training provider has been directly used in my day to day work. There is a gap betweeen what is learnt and what is required so sometimes it can feel that the work you are doing with the training provider is much easier than what is done at work. This can be difficult at the start but if you keep up for the first couple of months then the complement each other great

Yes. I am a member of a few groups. There is also sporting events. For example you can play football or tennis. There is a book club and public speaking which are good. Furthermore, there is a huge opportunity to get involved with volunteering and charity work. You can find something to help your career or simply make friends

Yes

It has worked well for me. I enjoy my job. I am happy with the opportunities supplied. There is room for improvement with the ease of moving teams i would prefer but other than that it is good and i would recommend it to anyone who is willing to get stuck in and try and learn something.

They dont expect you to be an expert. You are joining to learn. So focus on being open minded and working hard. As well as being a good fit professionally you must be a good fit personally. Barclays are a company that like to get involved with charities and volunteering so you should too.