Digital Degree Apprentice Review

by Vodafone

Best Apprenticeship Employer

Rating

9/10

1. Please give an overview of your role and what this involves on a day-to-day basis:

Currently I am studying the regular Computer Science BSc at the University of Birmingham, as a first year. During the summer at the end of the this academic year I will have a 10 week placement working within the business. Currently the only extra thing I do compared to a regular Computer Science student is update an activity log recording any off-the-job training that I receive.

10/10

2. Have you learnt any new skills or developed existing skills?

I have learnt plenty of new skills in regard to my knowledge of Computer Science, in particular related to programming. Before this course started I had a basic knowledge of programming but now I have many more skills which allow me to complete more complex and challenging tasks. I have also developed my problem solving and time management skills.

8/10

3. To what extent do you enjoy your programme?

I thoroughly enjoy my program. I find the modules I study at university engaging and interesting, which makes studying them much more enjoyable. I have regular contact from Vodafone which makes me feel included as a part of the business.

9/10

4. How well organised/structured is your programme?

I think that my programme is very well structured. The balance between university-based studying and working for Vodafone is very good. This is because I only work for Vodafone during placements, meaning I am not required to study and work at the same time which would be unreasonable.

10/10

5. How much support do you receive from your employer?

I have regular contact from Vodafone whilst at University. I have been put in contact with three business point of contacts who are available to help with any technical related questions that I have.

8/10

6. How much support do you receive from your training provider when working towards your qualifications?

The University provides a range of support for me. This includes a weekly tutor meeting to check my progress and for me to ask any questions. Each modules has a Microsoft teams channel to ask questions related to the module, and both lecturers and TAs are quick to respond on their. Their are online help sessions every week as well for each module.

10/10

7. How well do you feel that your qualification (through your training provider) helps you to perform better in your role?

My Computer Science degree is crucial for me to be able to perform better as a Vodafone employee. This qualification teaches me all of the technical skills that I need, and without it I would not be able to perform well in my role at all.

10/10

8. Are there extra-curricular activities to get involved in at your work? (For example, any social activities, sports teams, or even professional networking events.)

As a first year student I have not had a chance to start a placement yet, therefore I am unaware of what extra-curricular activities are available. However, I have heard that several social events will be available for us once the pandemic is over.

7/10

9a. Would you recommend Vodafone to a friend?

Yes

9b. Why?

So far my limited experience as an employee of this company has been nothing but positive. They are a very inclusive company and they have great benefits.

10. What tips or advice would you give to others applying to Vodafone?

My advice would be to definitely apply because they are a great company and there are lots of brilliant opportunities available as an employee. I would say it is important to demonstrate your passion for what you want to do at the interview stage as this is something I definitely feel helped me to get this apprenticeship.