Applications Consultant Review

I am an applications consultant on the HMRC account. I work between multiple teams, focusing on document management as well as migration of code and supporting live code releases. I work directly with the customer, ensuring visibility of approaching releases and utilize stakeholder engagement skills streamline any updates for delivery centre wide visibility.

Since starting my apprenticeship, I have learnt an abundance of new skills such as stakeholder engagement, project management as well as technical specific skill such as knowledge and ability to navigate through SAP environments. I have become confident in presenting work to peers of all levels - a skill I was not comfortable with before joining.

I enjoy elements of my program but equally I find some tedious. I find that the pros do outway the cons however. I enjoy having the opportunity to learn flexibly as well as being in charge of my own time, both in the working environment as well as in my education. I also feel very supported by my work colleagues with completing business work, as well as university work. I do however find the learning experience from Aston not to expectations in some areas, with work not getting marked in a timely manner, and the content of modules feels very recycled from previous years.

The majority of my program is organized to a high standard. My initial induction to the company and program was fantastic, with accomodation arranged and the content for the week planned perfectly. Everyone knew what was expected and the content was a high standard as well. It was all relevant and engaging. I find having the ability to book leave for study allows me the flexibility to manage my own time according to project demands.

My employer is fantastic in supporting myself and other apprentice colleagues on our program. My Line manager meets with me weekly to check on my progress, both in a work capacity and anything to do with university. In this time, I can raise any struggles I'm having managing my time between the two roles and support is arranged if I feel I cannot cope.

My training provider does provide support but not to the same standard as my organization. There are weekly arranged lectures for each module and tutor time is available to book. However, due to the class sizes being 60+ and the response time of tutors, it is sometimes hard to get the necessary attention to resolve any issues.

The qualification that I am working towards does not directly relate to my role at the moment however the technical aspects of my degree I hope will benefit a role change in the near future. I have hopes on moving into a coding role in the business and having the experience from this degree will help me achieve this change.

There are many activities to get involved in, some specific to my office and some are company wide so there really is something for everyone. There are lots of groups for minorities to raise awareness and appreciation, and the voice of these groups are heard and respected across our delivery centre. Our office also has a heavy involvement supporting the princes trust and regularly have fundraising activities to support them.

Yes

I feel valued in my role and supported by my peers. Whilst I'm not 100% confident in recommending Aston as a university, my degree will stand me in a good position to progress my career in the future. I also benefit from completing my degree whilst working which can help my studies and vice versa. I love working for a company that actively works to support charities and good causes.

Be authentic in your interview and show your willingness to learn rather than focusing on your current qualifications as a reason for being suitable for the job. The course assumes no knowledge so they're not looking for a polished developer, just someone with the potential to be one. Try to evidence situations where you have been proactive in your own learning.