DWP/UC Test Analyst Review

I work for Accenture on the DWP client project on the 'Assembly Test' team. My role consists of testing the Universal Credit system and gathering evidence to prove that we have met the client's acceptance criteria. A succesful UC system will allow Claimants and Agents to make a claim for Universal Credits. I use test designs, test models and master data dictionaries, data gathers in order to correctly test the system. I report things like work progress/ status updates to my line manager and engage in tasks/ communication with fellow team members.

In my current role, I have been developing my SQL Programming Skills by making claims on the UC Claimant Portal and then using SQL commands built up in a structured format in order to find out specific information. I have also been improving my Excel skills by adding in new acceptance criteria into the test model for the latest release.

I enjoy the team culture of Accenture as a whole by attending Communication events. I like the work in my project role as everyone is supportive and willing to offer help anytime. I like how each employee is given a Councellor/Mentor who is someone they can go to any time. The Apprenticeship was planned well during the first year with College, but with University the communication with Accenture and organisation from lecturers could be better.

I feel valued by Accenture because I was recently given feedback and rewards based on my performance on my role. I like how Accenture have communication events to keep me informed of the latest news about what is happening in the company.

The programme is well organised but could be better organised on the University side of things as communication to us from some (but not all) Lecturers was lacking at times. The structure is fine and I admire the support meetings with mentoring system.

Support is available from the training provider (Norhumbria Uni) but I have had one lecturer inparticular who was not supportive. Apart from that, the amount of support from the University is reasonable.

A fair amount of support is offered and I am happy with the mentoring system. Whenever I have started a new role in the company, I am always made to feel welcome and settle into the team easily.

The salary is pretty reasonable for this type of Apprenticeship and currently I pay a £49 amount of money per month for Metro(train) travel costs so I don't mind doing that.

There is volunteer opportunities where we can dedicate 3 days a year to take part in events/activities organised by charities. Team nights out for drinks & nibbles or meals are also happening on occasions. Various sports such as football and badminton are occasionaly organised with teams or individuals declaring their interest.

Yes

Accenture are a very supportive company who offer plenty of opportunities for employees to progress in various different roles.

Be confident, have an open mind when it comes to starting your role and make sure you are good at time management.