Apprentice Software Engineer Review

I have a specific project that I work on along with other members of my team. One project was centered around a Web Application Module that I was contributing features towards. Another involves data analysis using Python. Every morning, the team has Stand-Up where we talk about what we have been working on since the last meeting, what we are working on that day, and any blockers that might be holding us up.

I have developed my knowledge on multiple programming languages, including using new libraries that I had never heard of before. I have been introduced to new frameworks and approaches to coding, and been provided with the resources needed to learn about them. There are regular company specific training modules that help to develop my wider professional skills.

I love my job role and really enjoy every day. Arm is full of friendly members of staff, and I am getting help from people outside of my department as well as those in my team. Although it can be daunting to see how little I know compared to other Software Engineers, I am constantly reminded not to put pressure on myself and use my apprenticeship as an opportunity to learn as much as possible, rather than worry about my work output.

Arm are brilliant in their organisation and structure of the programme. I have regular meetings with my line manager, as well as two other members of staff who do not work in the same department. One of these is also an apprentice who has been doing the role for two years, giving me a variety of people to turn to if I have any questions.

I receive constant support from multiple members of the company. Members of my team always have time to work with me if I am having problems with something, and we have specific members of staff who we can contact regarding the university aspect of the course. Feedback is important to the company as they are keen to make the experience better for us and any future apprentices.

In my opinion, QA have been underperforming on their delivery of the training for the qualification. It feels more like I use my learning from Arm to support my University qualification than using what I learn from QA to support my work with Arm. I have a 'Skills Coach' who I have been told I can use as a contact, but have not received a reply from a couple of emails sent to them from myself and my manager. I am currently working through a module that is 100% self taught and I have questions that can't be answered because there is no one to ask. The resources for this module are also of a poor standard.

I currently don't feel that my qualification helps me perform better in my role, however I am still in the early stages of it. It could be that future modules are more beneficial, and feel that I could answer this question better at the end of my apprenticeship. At this stage, it feels like my role is helping me perform better in my qualification.

Arm are very focused on the positive wellbeing of its employers. As well as a Wellbeing group providing regular input for employees, they organise social events such as a Christmas party, quizzes, and a virtual disco over the Christmas period. There are various communities within arm, such as a Chess club, and there are team specific social events.

Yes

Everyone I have interacted with at the company has been really friendly and helpful. The work is interesting and there is a real emphasis on becoming as good of a Software Engineer as I possibly can. It is a challenging role that would be especially difficult without such a supportive environment to work in, however the challenge makes successes more rewarding. It is an exciting and rewarding place to work.

Hard work and passion about the subject are much more beneficial than a natural talent. Arm is a very collaborative work environment and a positive attitude towards learning is very much encouraged. Do not be scared to ask questions, because there are plenty of people and resources who can help.