Software Development Apprentice Review

I am working within the insurance sector on a project where I am developing software. The work I do is helping me build up a portfolio which showcases my abilities, this is part of the apprenticeship. I have also studied for exams and certifications which are part of the apprenticeship. I interact with other members in my team daily via phone calls and virtual meetings, and I am able to receive help whenever I need it. I also have regular content with my placement coach at makers academy to track my progress and allow me the opportunity to ask any questions regarding the apprenticeship.

Yes. I joined CGI with very little knowledge in programming so I have learnt a lot. The makers academy boot camp covered many aspects such as web development, databases and object orientated programming. I have been able to apply lots of this to my daily project work. I have also studied for and achieved certifications in software development methodologies and lifecycles. On a daily basis I also do some independent research to help me in my project work.

I have had a good experience and really enjoy the programme. The makers boot camp had a wide variety of content so every day was a bit different. It was well structured and encouraged team working with the other apprentices in the cohort. I did feel it was a little too fast paced for me since I had very little background knowledge and I did struggle getting started with some things because of this.

The makers boot camp was structured well and the progression of different topics worked well. We had enough support to learn new things while being encouraged to work things out on our own. However, since completing the boot camp I did feel it was slightly disorganised as I did not know what project I was going to be on for quite a bit of time.

The people in my office have been very helpful and willing to help when me I need it. My line manager is my main point of contact and is always around to help me with whatever question I send his way. I am also in regular contact with a graduate on my team as we are working through similar things and can help each other. I also felt extremely supported from CGI when I was off work for a period due to sickness, they put my health first and there was no pressure put on me to return when I wasn't ready. My colleagues were also very nice about it and regularly checked in, I really appreciated this and I don't feel like they could have done anything more.

The coaches at makers are very knowledgeable in the different exams as well as the portfolio. They are able to answer any questions I have to help me progress through the apprenticeship. Makers also have lots of resources I have used to help me learn and study for the exams.

The makers boot camp provided me with the basics in a variety of topics, some which do not apply to my current role. There were also some areas I would have liked them to have covered more as I did not feel I fully understood them. The course was completely remote, which has helped me with working from home.

Pre-pandemic there were a lot of activities to get involved in at CGI, which will start up again when possible. There is a scheme called working together which encourages people in the office to get involved in non work things. There is also a social club that can be joined for a small fee per month where you can get involved with in things such as paintballing, axe throwing and cocktail making.

Yes

CGI is a great place to start your career as they provide you with so many opportunities to help navigate your career. Everyone I have met has been very friendly and welcoming. CGI has many office locations so there is a possibility to move somewhere else or work on something new, it gives more flexibility than you might get at other companies.

Make sure your CV is clear and free from spelling errors and include skills and interests that are relevant to the role you are applying for. Also consider adding some personal interests as this could set you apart from others. If you make it to the assessment centre, make sure you speak clearly and try and use your problem solving skills.