Apprentice Developer Review

Work as part of an agile development team. Contribute towards work in progress within sprints, varying levels of development using Java and various other languages. Learning from developers within the team through pair programming and calls. Some time for learning via online platforms such as Pluralsight. Complete relevant training when appropriate.

Developed skills in Java, learning about various frameworks such as Apache Camel and Spring. Learning about project structure and clean code practices. Developed skills in various other languages such as Python. Learned more about Bash scripting. Gained skills from working in an agile development team. Improved in various other soft skills such as communication.

Thoroughly enjoy the programme. Gaining experience on real project work towards development. Interesting experience working as part of a team. Having a large number of apprentices in the programme creates an interactive community, with many people in the same boat. Additionally, having blocks at university provides a break from the office and allows further interaction outside of the programme.

The programme is lightly structured. There are clear timescales with HR set deadlines - however, these can be out of touch with actual development teams. Within the teams itself, the structure is greater, however, it varies from team to team. From a development point of view, the training provider structure is good and has a clear flow.

Receive a good level of support from the employer, there are clear people to contact for various issues within the workplace. Additionally, good level of support available from the team, especially for training provider related content - however, this varies from team to team. Opportunity to get further support in the wider area too.

Great support available from training provider. Lecturers interact well with the class and make good use of feedback. Without many previous years, the programme changes over time. However, deadlines can be quite flexible as lecturers understand the work-study nature of the course. Following that, good communication through online platforms and calls.

Some content from the university qualification isn't fully relevant in the workplace. While understanding the theory improved the overall understanding, you don't tend to use it on a day-to-day basis. If you had limited programming experience, it would be quite useful. However, having the basic knowledge before coming into work definitely helps.

In the office, there are some social activities, organised internally on a fairly regular basis. However, there isn't a great deal of this. As expected, some teams organise more social activities, which varies from team to team. There aren't as many activities organised as you would expect though.

Yes

Honestly don't see many downsides to the programme. It's a great opportunity to gain real world experience in a development team, while working towards a degree at Glasgow University and all the while getting paid to learn. By the end of the programme, you'll have a large advantage over traditional graduates.

While having experience in technology is good, it isn't necessary for the programme so I'd recommend showing your genuine interest for technology. Additionally, getting involved in as much as possible throughout recruitment and showing good teamwork and communication skills. Following that, just trying not to be too nervous as everyone's in a similar situation.