Technology Solutions Apprentice Review

My role involves supporting one of 5 functions at Ideagen - Software Dev, Research & Innovation, Design, IT, Security. I spend 6 months with each department learning about their daily tasks and helping to complete these. Currently I am working in the mobile development team implementing features on Ideagen's mobile application using Xamerin and C#.

I have learnt programming which is something I had no experience of beforehand. Through completing my university assignments I have learnt Python coding language and created a working message dashboard system. I have also learnt C# and XAML languages. I have also learnt to use test driven development to make my code more efficient.

I really enjoy the variety that the programme provides. Within university a wide variety of topics are covered in lectures that directly apply to the work I am doing at Ideagen. Within Ideagen I enjoy the fact that I get to experience and spend time in a number of different departments and develop skills in all areas.

The organisation from the university was poor in the beginning with communication to my workplace regarding timetabling/topics lacking. However this did improve in the second term of the university programme. The structure of the rotations at Ideagen and how they reflect what is being covered at university is very well organised.

I receive amazing support from my employer. They allow me the time to complete my university assignments and ensure I can develop my skills through online courses and in person training. All team members at Ideagen are willing to answer any questions I have and support me in my learning at university.

The university provide training in the form of 2 week study blocks 3 times each year. The university also provides support sessions after these study blocks to ensure I have the opportunity to ask questions and get support with my university assignments. The lecturers and course leaders are also always available my Microsoft Teams if you need to ask a quick question.

When I joined Ideagen I had no technical experience or knowledge relating to the role I was in therefore the qualification has been a great help to allowing me to succeed in my role. It has given me the technical knowledge I need such as programming but also allowed me to build my confidence and interact with other IT professionals.

Due to the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic events have been limited since I joined the company however ever Friday a fitness Friday zoom exercise class takes place that we are encouraged to get involved with and also Yoga on a Wednesday. Various activities also take place on our intranet such as competitions and blogs where we can interact with colleagues and share photos etc.

Yes

Since joining the company they have been very supportive of my development from allowing me to complete my degree apprenticeship to setting up weekly 121s I feel I am never left to struggle and support is always there if I need it. It is also such a fun and engaging company! Lots of events to take part it in and everyone is very approachable.

I would say do not let your lack of experience put you off applying to Ideagen as they are very open and willing to support personal development. I would also advise people to be very personable and honest during the application process as I feel like this is valued by the company.