Degree Apprentice Review

In my day to day role I am a bid support analyst, I assist with proposal writing, layouts, presentation decks and portal submissions. This is all whilst shadowing a more senior bid manager throughout the day to learn more about what the future of bid management has in store for me.

I have developed on a lot of skills that I had a good foundation of including time management, team work, leadership, organisation and more technical abilities including learning more office techniques and even some basic coding languages such as python. I have also built my networking skills and have transferred them to the virtual environment

My programme is very enjoyable, coming from doing A levels on a strict syllabus with three subjects I feel much more in control now that I am studying the subject that I enjoy whilst also working in a much more comfortable environment for me - The difference between A levels and a Degree Apprenticeship was a very nice change

The programme that I am being trained through is very well organised by my company and the University of Winchester. Meetings with both the university and my workplace together have occurred to ensure that I receive the proper time and quality of training and support is offered from both parties

I receive a good amount of support from my employer, but what I like the most is that more support is available should I ask for it - I know that if I were to be struggling to keep up with university work that my workplace would accommodate the proper support needed

I receive enough support from my training provider, it is hard to describe as the lecturers in different modules offer support in different ways. I have currently got one lecturer who goes above and beyond to answer calls even on weekends to discuss any concerns I have over the course material!

I have had some incredibly relevant modules such as Managing Finance and Responsible Management which have improved both my business finance skills and allowed me to relate the CSR objectives from University directly into my bid proposals at work. The lecturers in these modules have managed to engage us in a professional manner

There are a plethora of extra-curricular activities at CGI, the Sports and Social club in just six months of me being in office prior to lockdown saw me go to Ascot Races, Ballie Ballerson, Airsoft, Go-Karting and a Christmas Dinner - outside of this I played football and basketball weekly and am looking forward to the CGI European football championships

Yes

I would recommend CGI to a friend because of the working environment. From day one I was seen as an equal member of the CGI family and never felt belittled. I have received multiple opportunities for self-improvement and get to take my career in whichever direction I like to explore.

When applying to CGI I would emphasise the point that being yourself really is the best option. We look for a positive attitude and not only embrace but encourage individuality. We also look for people who can work well in teams and encourage one another to bring the best parts out of the people around them.